Category Archives: General Surgery

What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer?

Thyroid cancer is usually asymptomatic in early stages and often discovered incidentally. As the tumor enlarges or invades adjacent structures, the following may develop: Painless neck lumpMost common first sign—unilateral, firm, poorly mobile on swallowing, slowly but steadily enlarging . HoarsenessPersistent and unrelenting hoarseness due to recurrent laryngeal nerve invasion and vocal-cord palsy . DysphagiaCompression or invasion of the oesophageal entrance causes globus sensation and progressive difficulty swallowing solids . DyspnoeaTracheal compression or intraluminal growth produces inspiratory stridor and orthopnoea that worsen when lying flat . Cervical lymph-node swellingFirm, matted nodes in the lateral neck often indicate regional metastasis .... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Acute Appendicitis?

Acute appendicitis results from luminal obstruction followed by bacterial overgrowth and rapid inflammation. Cardinal features in chronological order are: Migratory painVague periumbilical or upper-abdominal discomfort migrates to the right lower quadrant within 4–6 h and intensifies with movement, coughing or palpation. Gastro-intestinal upsetAnorexia, nausea and often vomiting; loose stools or constipation may mislead toward gastroenteritis. FeverLow-grade 37–38 °C early, rising >38.5 °C as inflammation advances; elderly or immunocompromised patients may remain afebrile. Peritoneal signsMaximal tenderness at McBurney point, rebound pain, guarding and hypo-active bowel sounds indicate parietal peritoneal irritation. Systemic toxicityTachycardia, malaise, thirst; high fever with pallor or hypotension suggests... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Lymphadenitis?

Lymphadenitis is an inflammatory condition of lymph nodes caused by bacterial, viral, or other pathogens, usually secondary to infections of the skin, mouth, or respiratory tract. Common manifestations include: Enlarged lymph nodesNodes range from pea- to bean-sized or larger, feel firm or rubbery, and are well-defined in acute stages; chronic nodes may be slightly adherent . Pain and tendernessMost prominent in acute phase; palpation, head turning, arm lifting, or chewing can aggravate discomfort . Skin changesOverlying skin becomes red, warm, and edematous; severe cases mimic cellulitis . Fluctuation and abscess formationCentral necrosis liquefies, producing a fluid-filled cavity with throbbing pain... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Peritonitis?

Peritonitis is an acute inflammation of the peritoneum triggered by bacterial, chemical or physical insults. It progresses rapidly and may become life-threatening within hours. Key manifestations include: Abdominal painThe earliest and most prominent symptom—persistent, sharp, and diffuse; movement, coughing or palpation intensifies the discomfort. Peritoneal signsTenderness, rebound pain and guarding give the abdomen a board-like rigidity, reflecting parietal peritoneal irritation. Nausea & vomitingInitially reflex, later bilious or feculent if paralytic ileus supervenes. Fever & rigorsTemperature often >38 °C with chills as systemic inflammation ignites. Abdominal distensionGas and fluid accumulate when peristalsis ceases, sometimes compromising respiration. Cessation of flatus & stoolAbsent... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Retroperitoneal Hematoma?

A retroperitoneal hematoma is basically a deep bruise behind the abdominal lining. Blood vessels tear, fluid collects, and the space fills silently. Most people feel nothing at first, then vague aches appear. The list below keeps things simple. Early warning flares A dull throb in the flank or low back is common. It can wrap forward into the groin. Sitting upright may ease it slightly, while deep breaths make it worse. Some individuals notice mild nausea or a full feeling long before any skin changes show. As the puddle grows The belly bloats, jeans feel tight, yet weight stays stable.... Learn more