Which symptom is most commonly associated with cast syndrome?

Cast syndrome, also known as abdominal compartment syndrome, occurs when a cast or tight bandage encircles the abdomen and compresses the abdominal contents, leading to a range of symptoms primarily involving gastrointestinal distress. Nausea and vomiting are most commonly associated with this condition because the compression can impair normal peristalsis and lead to a buildup of gastrointestinal contents, causing nausea.

As the abdominal pressure increases, it can also obstruct the flow of digestive material through the intestines, further contributing to feelings of nausea and the potential for vomiting. Other symptoms such as abdominal pain may occur, but nausea and vomiting are particularly hallmark symptoms due to the biological response of the body to pressure within the abdominal cavity.

While loss of appetite and diarrhea can be coincidentally present in this condition, they are not the defining symptoms. Nausea and vomiting truly encapsulate the acute physiological response to the increased abdominal pressure associated with cast syndrome, solidifying their status as the most commonly experienced symptoms.