Epigastric Pain: 5 Reasons You Should Stop Ignoring It

Pain in the upper abdomen, just below your ribcage, especially after a meal, isn’t uncommon. Most people experience epigastric pain as a consequence of acid reflux, especially if the symptoms appear after a meal.

However, epigastric pain, although mostly related to minor digestive issues, can sometimes be a sign of an issue that needs further investigation. The upper area of your abdomen is the crossroads of many vital organs and could be a sign that your body is struggling in some way.

To help you better understand what could be causing your symptoms and what can be done about them, we asked our experts at Carolina Digestive Health Associates to share the five most common causes of epigastric pain.

1. It could be related to your heart

One of the most important reasons to take epigastric pain seriously is its potential link to heart issues. Few people experience heart issues that present as epigastric pain, but it is possible, as the nerves in the heart and stomach are closely linked. What feels like pain in the upper abdomen rather than the chest could also be related to cardiac issues, including angina.

Fortunately, a combination of medications and lifestyle changes can both treat the pain and help halt the progression of the condition.

2. Peptic ulcer disease

A peptic ulcer can develop inside the lining of your stomach or in the upper portion of your small intestine when gastric acid eats away at the protective lining. The acid is able to penetrate this protective barrier, usually as a consequence of a bacterial infection that weakens the lining and, in some cases, due to the chronic or high-dose use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Peptic ulcers may feel manageable at first, but it’s very important to detect and treat them early, as gastric acid can continue to erode the tissues, causing perforations in the stomach and internal bleeding.

3. Gallbladder issues

Gallbladder pain often radiates upward, making it difficult to identify the true location of the problem. When gallstones are to blame, the pain is typically intense and constant. It may appear after meals, but it is usually much more severe and does not improve when you change positions. Nausea and vomiting often accompany the pain as well.

4. Pancreatitis

The pancreas is located deep in the abdomen, and when it becomes inflamed or its ducts become blocked, it can cause intense, radiating pain in the upper abdomen. The pain may occur after a fatty meal and can be confused with acid reflux, but pancreatitis is a much more serious medical condition that requires prompt treatment.

5. Chronic gastritis or GERD

One of the most common causes of epigastric pain is acid reflux. Over time, if the condition becomes chronic, acid reflux doesn’t just cause pain and discomfort. The acid can climb up the esophagus, causing erosions that may eventually lead to precancerous changes.

With the right lifestyle changes and, in some cases, the use of antacids, you can manage acid reflux in a way that helps prevent complications.

Learn more about the cause of your epigastric pain

Epigastric pain can be caused by many issues, some more serious than others. If you want to eliminate discomfort and be on the safe side, contact us to schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Belmont or Charlotte, North Carolina. 

Our experts will determine the cause of your pain and create a tailored treatment plan to help keep you pain-free and protect your long-term health.