Upper abdominal pain can be caused by various conditions such as indigestion, hernia, heart or lung problems. It is important to report sudden pain to a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options depend on the root cause of the pain.
The abdomen is the part of the body that lies between the chest and the pelvis. Since most of the vital organs are contained in the abdominal cavity, pain in this area can be quite distressing. Upper abdominal pain could be the result of conditions such as indigestion, a hernia, or heart or lung problems. Any sudden pain should be reported to a doctor immediately so that a proper diagnosis can be made and treatment can begin. Treatment options depend on the root cause of the pain, and tests such as X-rays may be used to help your doctor make a diagnosis.
Esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus, is a relatively common cause of upper abdominal pain. Other symptoms may include difficulty or pain when swallowing. Treatment typically involves medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation, and more aggressive treatment, including surgery, may be needed in severe cases.
Indigestion, sometimes referred to as dyspepsia, often causes a burning sensation in the upper abdomen. Pressure or a sense of fullness after eating is also common. Indigestion can be caused by conditions such as acid reflux disease, ulcers or pancreatic problems. Once these problems are resolved, the discomfort usually goes away on its own. If you have chronic indigestion or if you can’t find a direct cause, there are over-the-counter and prescription medications available to treat bothersome symptoms.
A hernia occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal wall. This is a frequent cause of upper abdominal pain and can be caused by obesity, genetic predisposition, or straining during bowel movements. Depending on the type and severity of the hernia, this condition can be a medical emergency. Treatment often involves surgery to repair the damage to the intestines and abdominal wall.
Heart or lung problems, such as a heart attack or pneumonia, can sometimes lead to abdominal pain. These conditions can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. While pain is often not a sign of anything serious, it needs to be checked to rule out major problems. For this reason, any sudden or persistent pain in this area of the body should be reported to a doctor immediately.
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