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Why Does My Upper Stomach Hurt?

Published in Abdominal Pain 3 mins read

Your upper stomach pain could be due to several reasons. Based on common causes, here's a breakdown:

Potential Causes of Upper Abdominal Pain

It's essential to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis, but here are some common culprits for pain in the upper stomach area:

Common Conditions

  • Acid Reflux: This occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation.

  • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can lead to pain and discomfort.

  • Peptic Ulcers: These are open sores that develop on the lining of your stomach or small intestine, causing a gnawing or burning pain.

  • Gallstones: Hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in the gallbladder and cause pain.

  • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can result in severe abdominal pain.

Summary Table

Condition Description Common Symptoms
Acid Reflux Stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Burning sensation, chest pain, regurgitation.
Gastritis Inflammation of the stomach lining. Upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting.
Peptic Ulcers Open sores on the lining of the stomach or small intestine. Gnawing or burning pain in the upper abdomen, often worse on an empty stomach.
Gallstones Hardened deposits in the gallbladder. Intense pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting.
Pancreatitis Inflammation of the pancreas. Severe upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, nausea, vomiting, fever.

What You Should Do

  • Consult a Doctor: If you have persistent upper abdominal pain, it is critical to seek medical advice to get a proper diagnosis.

  • Track Your Symptoms: Pay attention to when the pain occurs, what makes it better or worse, and any other associated symptoms. This information will be very helpful for your doctor.

  • Avoid Self-Treatment: While over-the-counter remedies may provide temporary relief, it is important to address the underlying cause of the pain with professional medical advice.

It's important to remember that this information is for general awareness and not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are experiencing upper abdominal pain, it is crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible to get the correct diagnosis and treatment plan.

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