Category Archives: General Surgery

What Are the Symptoms of Acute Lymphadenitis

Acute lymphadenitis is a rapid, usually painful enlargement of lymph nodes triggered by bacterial or viral infection. Typical features develop over hours to days and include: Swollen, tender nodeA single node or regional group suddenly enlarges to pea-to-walnut size; the overlying skin feels hot and is painful to touch. Red, warm skinThe surface becomes flushed and edematous as inflammation spreads from node to subcutaneous tissue. Fluctuant massCentral liquefaction produces a soft, “water-bed” sensation, indicating abscess formation. Fever and chillsTemperature often rises to 38–39 °C with rigors, malaise, and night sweats. Spontaneous drainageIf untreated, the abscess may rupture, releasing creamy pus... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Scalp Lacerations

Scalp lacerations are tears of the scalp skin produced by blunt or sharp trauma. Because the scalp is richly vascularized, even small wounds can bleed profusely. Typical features include: Immediate heavy bleedingBright-red blood often streams down the face and neck; arterial spurting is possible if the deep temporal or occipital vessels are injured. Visible gap or flapThe wound edges gape open, revealing sub-cutaneous fat, galea, or occasionally bone; hair may hide smaller defects. Pain and localised tendernessSharp pain at the site, worsened by jaw movement or palpation; surrounding bruising and swelling develop quickly. Swelling and hematomaRapidly forming soft or boggy... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Cystic Tumors and Cysts

Cystic tumors and cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can arise in any organ or soft tissue. Most are benign and asymptomatic, but enlargement, infection, or malignant change may produce noticeable signs: Painless lump or swellingA smooth, round, compressible mass under the skin or within an organ; usually mobile and grows slowly. Local pressure or achingDull pain develops when the cyst compresses nerves or adjacent structures, especially if it reaches >3–4 cm. Sudden sharp painRapid enlargement, hemorrhage into the cyst, or rupture causes acute localized pain sometimes accompanied by bruising. Change in organ functionOvarian cysts may lead to menstrual irregularity; pancreatic... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Incisional Hernia

An incisional hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a scar in the abdominal wall after previous surgery. Common symptoms include: Palpable bulge under the scarA soft swelling that becomes more obvious when standing, coughing, or straining and may disappear when lying down. Aching or dragging painDiscomfort often increases toward the end of the day, after lifting, or during prolonged standing. Feeling of heaviness or pressurePatients report a weight in the abdomen that is relieved by rest or gentle manual pressure on the lump. Reducible massThe hernia can usually be pushed back into the abdomen with gentle pressure; it re-protrudes with... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Lipoma

Lipomas are benign, slow-growing fatty tumors that usually lie between the skin and underlying muscle. Most cause no serious health problems, but they can be noticed or felt. Typical features include: Soft, doughy lump under the skinThe mass feels rubbery and easily moves with gentle finger pressure; it is usually round or oval with smooth edges. Painless swellingMost lipomas do not hurt, but larger ones or those near nerves may produce aching or tenderness if they press on surrounding tissues. Small to moderate sizeCommon diameters are 1–3 cm; “giant” forms can exceed 5 cm and may raise cosmetic concern or... Learn more