ABDOMINAL PAIN, UPPER

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

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Symptom Definition

Pain is primarily centered in the upper abdomen (i.e. just below rib cage and above belly button).

General Information

There are multiple causes of abdominal pain.
Gastritis and peptic ulcer disease are common and typically cause pain in the upper abdomen (epigastrium), sometimes accompanied by vomiting.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causes a burning pain that radiates into chest. Lying down aggravates symptoms. May get a sour or bitter taste in mouth.
Abdominal pain in the elderly carries with it a higher risk of serious illness.
The possibility of a heart attack needs to be considered in anyone over the age of 35 or anyone who has cardiac risk factors. Cardiac risk factors include: diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), obesity, smoking, and a family history of heart attack at an age of less than 60.

See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If

Any CHEST PAIN
CONSTIPATION is the main symptom and abdominal pain is mild
VOMITING is the main symptom and abdominal pain is mild
DIARRHEA is the main symptom and abdominal pain is mild

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002