Blunt Abdominal Injury
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
A blunt abdominal injury is a direct blow to the abdomen without an open wound. Organs such as your pancreas, liver, spleen, or bladder may be injured. Your intestines may also be injured. These injuries may cause internal bleeding.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call 911 for any of the following:
- You feel weak, lightheaded, or you faint.
- You have a fast heartbeat, fast breathing, and pale, sweaty skin.
- You have new or severe pain, swelling, or firmness in your abdomen.
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have nausea and are vomiting.
- You have blood in your urine or bowel movement.
- You have new or severe pain in your back.
- You have trouble urinating or having a bowel movement.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- NSAIDs help decrease swelling and pain or fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Apply ice:
Ice helps to decrease swelling and pain. Ice may also help prevent tissue damage. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel before you apply it to your skin. Place it on your injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed.
Limit activity as directed:
This will help decrease pain and swelling, and prevent other injuries. Do not exercise or play sports until your healthcare provider says it is okay.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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