Therapeutische Umschau. Revue thérapeutique
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For drug therapy a differentiation of acute and chronic pain is essential. In emergency situations of acute abdominal pain a fast diagnosis is mandatory. Analgesia should be provided as soon as possible. ⋯ Co-analgesics like anticonvulsants and antidepressants are utilized to reduce sensitization and improve the endogenous pain modulating system. Non drug approaches and alternative treatment options might be useful. In contrast, orally or transcutaneously administered opioids are the principal corner stone for the treatment of cancer pain.
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Abdominal pain is a frequent symptom among elderly hospitalized patients. Taking the patient's history is often difficult because of a cognitive impairment. ⋯ Especially atypical and less symptomatic courses render establishing the correct diagnosis more difficult. The higher comorbidity, the often more advanced disease stage at the time of seeking medical attention and an delayed accurate diagnosis all contribute to the higher mortality in the elderly patients.