Upper stomach pain can be caused by various medical conditions such as pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, acid reflux disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and in severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. Any symptoms of viral hepatitis should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Stomach pain can be a cause of great distress for many people. There can be a variety of causes, depending on the exact location of the pain. An upper stomach pain can indicate medical problems such as inflammation of the pancreas or gallbladder. Other common causes of upper stomach pain include acid reflux disease, hepatitis and ulcers. Treatment is directed at finding the exact cause of upper stomach pain and treating the underlying condition as needed.
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, the organ responsible for producing and releasing hormones such as insulin and glucagon and which aids in the digestive process. Typical symptoms include stomach pain, nausea, and fever. Treatment typically involves a few days in the hospital, as well as receiving fluids and medications through an IV, a tube inserted into a vein. In severe cases, a tube may need to be inserted into the nose that travels into the stomach for tube feeding.
Gallbladder problems such as gallstones can lead to stomach pain in the upper part, especially on the right side. Gallbladder pain tends to radiate to the chest, right shoulder, or back areas. Gallbladder problems can often lead to an emergency that requires immediate removal of the gallbladder. For this reason, any potential gallbladder problems should be reported to a doctor right away.
Pain that feels predominantly on the left side may be a condition known as irritable bowel syndrome. An intestinal infection or emotional stress can sometimes make the symptoms of this condition worse. Stomach pain is often accompanied by depression, nausea and vomiting. Increasing the amount of fiber in your diet can often reduce the symptoms of this condition.
If chronic upper stomach pain is present along with other symptoms such as a yellow tint to the eyes and skin or dark urine, see a doctor right away. There are potential symptoms of a medical condition known as viral hepatitis. This condition causes swelling and inflammation of the liver and is a medical emergency.
Acid reflux disease commonly causes an upper stomach pain. This condition can also cause chest pain or a sour taste in the mouth and often worsens after eating. If over-the-counter antacids or acid reducers don’t provide adequate relief, you should see a doctor so that more tests can be performed and an accurate diagnosis can be obtained.
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