Pain in the epigastrium: causes, diagnostics, and treatment
About the symptom
Epigastric pain is a common symptom that often indicates problems in the stomach area and nearby organs. The epigastrium is the area located in the upper central part of the abdomen, between the lower ribs and the navel. Pain in this area can vary in intensity and character: it can be sharp, dull, burning, or stabbing. Often, patients describe it as a burning or pressure sensation that may worsen after eating or during stressful situations.
The causes of epigastric pain can vary from simple minor disorders, such as gastritis or dyspepsia, to more serious conditions, including peptic ulcer disease, pancreatitis, or even myocardial infarction. Therefore, it is extremely important to properly diagnose the source of the pain. If you experience persistent or severe pain in the epigastrium, it is necessary to consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Diseases
Pain in the epigastric area can be a symptom of various diseases, many of which require close attention and timely diagnosis. The epigastrium is the area located between the rib cage and the navel, and pain in this zone can indicate pathological changes in the organs located in the upper abdomen. It is important to emphasize that the nature and intensity of the pain can vary depending on the specific disease and the individual characteristics of the patient.
The most common diseases that manifest as pain in the epigastric area include gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, pancreatitis, and cholecystitis. Each of these ailments has its characteristic symptoms; however, the pain syndrome in the epigastric area can be either acute or chronic. Therefore, when such symptoms occur, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor for qualified assistance and necessary diagnostics.
- Gastritis
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Pancreatitis
- Cholecystitis
- Stomach cancer
- Hiatal hernia
- Dyspepsia
- Esophagitis
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of pain in the epigastric region is an important step in determining the causes of this symptom. When visiting a doctor, the patient can expect a comprehensive examination aimed at identifying the underlying cause of the pain. The doctor will conduct a detailed interview, determining the nature of the pain, its location, duration, and the presence of accompanying symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or changes in stool. The diagnostic strategy may vary depending on the clinical picture, but generally includes both laboratory and instrumental examination methods.
Modern diagnostic methods allow for rapid and accurate diagnosis, which is especially important in the presence of life-threatening conditions. It is important to remember that any pain in the epigastric area requires attention and legal consultation to prevent the development of more serious diseases. Based on the obtained data, the doctor will be able to prescribe appropriate treatment aimed at eliminating the cause of the pain.
- Complete blood count and urinalysis
- Biochemical blood test
- Ultrasound of the abdominal organs
- Gastroscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy)
- X-ray with contrast
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Colonoscopy
Which doctor to consult
Epigastric pain is a symptom that can cause concern and require the attention of medical specialists. It is important to determine the cause of the discomfort in order to start the correct treatment. If you experience pain in the upper abdomen, it is recommended to consult a therapist who will conduct a primary examination and collect your medical history. Based on the information obtained, the doctor will be able to refer you to more specialized specialists if necessary.
Depending on accompanying symptoms and the suspected cause of epigastric pain, you may need consultations with a gastroenterologist, surgeon, or even an infectious disease specialist. A gastroenterologist specializes in diseases of the digestive system and can assess the condition of your stomach and intestines. A surgeon may be necessary in cases where surgical intervention is required to address the causes of pain.
- Therapist
- Gastroenterologist
- Surgeon
- Infectious disease specialist
- Endocrinologist
Types of Epigastric Pain
Epigastric pain can manifest in various types, each of which may indicate different causes and diseases. One of the most common types is sharp pain, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. It often signals serious conditions such as pancreatitis or gastritis. In this case, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
Another type is dull, aching pain. It is typically associated with functional disorders of the stomach and may indicate the presence of chronic conditions such as ulcers or dyspepsia. Dull pain can intensify after eating, which is also an important symptom for diagnosis. Understanding what type of pain the patient is experiencing can assist the doctor in determining the cause and prescribing the appropriate treatment.
- Sharp pain
- Dull, aching pain
- Constricting pain
- Short-term, stabbing pain
- Periodic pain after eating
Causes of Epigastric Pain
Epigastric pain can be caused by many factors that are directly related to the condition of the organs located in the upper abdomen. The most common causes are various gastrointestinal diseases, such as gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, cholecystitis, and pancreatitis. These conditions lead to inflammation and damage to the tissues of the organs, which in turn causes painful sensations in the epigastric area.
In addition, pain may arise due to functional disorders, such as dyskinesia of the biliary tract or irritable bowel syndrome. It is also important to consider that some diseases not directly related to the digestive organs can cause similar symptoms. For example, acute myocardial infarctions in both men and women may manifest as pain in the epigastrium, making diagnosis particularly important.
- Gastritis and peptic ulcer disease
- Cholecystitis
- Pancreatitis
- Dyskinesia of the biliary tract
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Acute myocardial infarction
- Esophagitis
- Stomach cancer
Common Related Pathologies
Epigastric pain can be a symptom of various diseases, many of which require timely diagnosis and treatment. This pain is usually associated with pathologies of the digestive system, but one should not forget about diseases of other systems that can also manifest in this area. Epigastric pain often arises from gastritis, gastric ulcers, and cholecystitis, which is due to the immediate anatomical location of these organs.
In addition to gastrointestinal diseases, epigastric pain can serve as an indicator of disorders of the cardiovascular system, such as coronary artery disease. Pathologies of the pancreas, such as pancreatitis, can also manifest as pain in this area. It is important to remember that the manifestation of pain in the epigastric region requires careful attention to one’s health and should not go without medical evaluation.
- Gastritis
- Gastric ulcer
- Cholecystitis
- Pancreatitis
- Coronary artery disease
- Esophagitis
- Gastric cancer
- Chronic liver diseases
Expert Opinion
Epigastric pain is a symptom that can indicate various health problems and requires timely diagnosis and treatment. It is important to understand that such pain does not always point to a specific disease; its causes can vary from harmless to serious conditions. A gastroenterologist, who specializes in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, can help determine whether the pain is related to the digestive system’s function or has a more complex etiology.
When experiencing pain in the epigastric area, one should not ignore the body’s signals. Experts recommend avoiding self-medication and consulting specialists to investigate the causes, conduct necessary examinations, and prescribe adequate treatment. The presence of additional symptoms, such as heartburn, nausea, or changes in stool, should also be considered when consulting a doctor, as they can significantly simplify the clinical picture.
Treatment of Epigastric Pain
The treatment of epigastric pain depends on the underlying disease that causes this symptom. It is important to understand that epigastric pain can be a manifestation of various pathologies, ranging from gastritis to more serious conditions such as peptic ulcer disease or pancreatitis. Initially, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive diagnosis to determine the exact cause of the pain and based on that will select appropriate treatment.
In most cases, treatment includes lifestyle and diet changes, the use of medications, and sometimes surgical intervention. The main focus is on addressing the cause of the pain: reducing inflammation, preventing exacerbations of diseases, normalizing stomach acidity, and improving digestion. It is also important to maintain a regime of mental calm, as stress can contribute to worsening the condition.
- Medication treatment (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic drugs)
- Diet therapy (excluding fatty, spicy, and acidic foods)
- Physical therapy (when indicated)
- Surgical intervention (when necessary, e.g., in the case of an ulcer)
- Psychotherapy (in the presence of stress factors)
Complications
Epigastric pain can be a symptom of various diseases, and ignoring it or misjudging the condition can lead to serious complications. The most common consequences of unattended pain are the development of chronic diseases, serious inflammatory processes, and even perforation of internal organs. For example, a stomach ulcer, if left untreated, can lead to internal bleeding and the need for surgical intervention.
Additionally, chronic epigastric pain may be associated with metabolic disorders such as diabetes or liver diseases. It is important to understand that symptoms may signal already developed complications that require more complex and prolonged treatment. In this regard, timely diagnosis and consulting specialists are necessary steps to prevent the deterioration of the patient’s condition.
- Perforation of a stomach ulcer
- Internal bleeding
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Development of oncological diseases
- Cost of life in case of advanced pathology
FAQ
What to do when experiencing pain in the epigastric region?
When experiencing pain in the epigastric region, it is important not to ignore this symptom, especially if it is accompanied by other signs such as nausea, vomiting, or changes in stool. It is recommended to first consult a doctor for diagnosis and to determine the causes of the pain. As a first aid measure, you can try to find a comfortable position, avoiding heavy foods and spicy drinks, as well as using ice or a warm heating pad to relieve the pain. However, self-medication is not a solution, and consulting a specialist is necessary to determine the appropriate treatment.
What are the main causes of pain in the epigastric region?
Pain in the epigastric region can arise for a number of reasons, the most common of which are gastritis, gastric ulcers, pancreatitis, and problems with the biliary tract. It can also be related to heart diseases, such as angina, or to functional disorders of the digestive system, such as dyspepsia. It is important to remember that any discomfort in this area requires careful consideration and may signal more serious illnesses, so when such symptoms occur, it is advisable to consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
Which specialist will help with pain in the epigastrium?
In case of pain in the epigastric region, it is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist who specializes in diseases of the digestive system. This doctor will be able to conduct a comprehensive examination, determine the causes of the pain, and prescribe appropriate treatment. If necessary, the gastroenterologist may also refer to other specialists, such as a surgeon or therapist, depending on the identified diseases or conditions. It is important not to ignore pain in the epigastric region, as it may be a sign of serious illnesses that require timely diagnosis and therapy.
How can you relieve pain in the epigastric region at home?
In case of pain in the epigastrium, you can try several simple measures at home to alleviate the condition. First, it is important to pay attention to your diet: exclude heavy, fatty, and spicy foods; prefer light vegetable soups, cereals, and lean meats. It is also helpful to eat small portions often to avoid overloading the stomach. A heating pad, for example, a warm heating pad on the abdomen, can help reduce discomfort. Finally, it is recommended to ensure rest and avoid stressful situations. However, if the pain does not go away or worsens, it is important to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.