Upper abdominal pain
Upper Abdominal Pain Causes and Treatment
Specialist assessment of persistent or unexplained upper abdominal pain, with appropriate imaging, endoscopy or surgical referral where needed.
Overview
Understanding upper abdominal pain
Upper abdominal pain can arise from the gallbladder, stomach, pancreas, liver, bowel or abdominal wall. Pain may be central, right-sided or left-sided and may be associated with nausea, bloating, vomiting, jaundice, weight loss or changes in bowel habit.
When to seek urgent help
Severe persistent pain, fever, jaundice, repeated vomiting, black stools, unexplained weight loss or pain spreading through to the back should be assessed urgently.
Upper abdominal pain causes and treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and may involve medication, imaging, endoscopy or surgery. Possible causes include gallstones, gastritis, stomach ulcer, pancreatitis and heartburn.
Common causes of upper abdominal pain
Common causes include gallstones, biliary colic, acute cholecystitis, stomach ulcer, gastritis, reflux, pancreatitis and abdominal wall hernias.
Right upper abdominal pain
Right-sided upper abdominal pain may be caused by gallstones, gallbladder inflammation, bile duct stones, liver problems or abdominal wall pain.
Central upper abdominal pain
Central or epigastric pain may be associated with gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, pancreatitis, reflux, gallstones or abdominal wall problems.
Symptoms to report
Important symptoms include fever, jaundice, persistent vomiting, dark urine, pale stools, weight loss, blood in vomit or stool, abdominal swelling, worsening pain and pain that wakes you at night.
How is upper abdominal pain investigated?
Ultrasound is often the first test when gallstones or gallbladder disease are suspected. Blood tests can assess liver function, inflammation and pancreatic enzymes. CT, MRI, MRCP or endoscopy may be recommended depending on symptoms.
Gallstones and upper abdominal pain
Gallstones can cause biliary colic, cholecystitis, bile duct obstruction and pancreatitis. Treatment depends on whether symptoms are present and whether complications have occurred.
Pancreatitis and upper abdominal pain
Acute pancreatitis often causes severe upper abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting and usually requires hospital assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Upper abdominal pain FAQs
What are common surgical causes of upper abdominal pain?
Common causes include gallstones, pancreatitis, bile duct stones and complications such as cholecystitis. Non-surgical causes such as gastritis, reflux or ulcers may also need assessment.
When should upper abdominal pain be treated as urgent?
Severe persistent pain, fever, jaundice, repeated vomiting, black stools, unexplained weight loss or pain spreading through to the back should be assessed urgently.
Why is ultrasound often used first for upper abdominal pain?
Ultrasound is a useful first test for gallstones, gallbladder inflammation and bile duct enlargement.
Can upper abdominal pain be related to the pancreas?
Yes. Pancreatitis can cause severe central or upper abdominal pain, often spreading to the back and associated with nausea or vomiting.
What tests are used for upper abdominal pain?
Tests may include blood tests, ultrasound, CT, MRI or endoscopy, depending on symptoms and the suspected cause.
Specialist care in Manchester
Book a consultation with Mr Christian Macutkiewicz
Arrange a private consultation at Spire Manchester Hospital to discuss your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
Hernia Clinic Manchester 