Abdominal rigidity

Alternative names:

guarding of the abdomen-involuntary; rigidity of the abdomen

Definition:

Abnormal muscle tension or inflexibility of the abdomen detected when touching or pressing on the abdomen.

Considerations:

A patient's fear or nervousness about being touched (palpated) in the abdominal area is referred to as voluntary rigidity. It usually occurs on both sides of the abdomen. Involuntary rigidity (usually caused by physical conditions) may affect one or both sides and be associated with pain.

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal tenderness, swelling, and pain often accompany rigidity.

Common causes:

• injury to the abdomen
• peritonitis
• acute appendicitis
• gastrointestinal perforation (hole in the bowel or stomach)

Note: There may be other causes of abdominal rigidity. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for rigidity, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.