Pain Above the Navel: Possible Causes of Upper Abdominal Pain

Pain in the upper abdomen — above the navel, in the middle, or under the ribs — is described by readers as "pain in the abdomen above the navel." This sensation may originate from various organs, and it is not always a serious condition: some types of pain resolve within a few days. Below is reference information about what is located in this area, what causes such pain, and which signs are considered emergencies.

What is located in the upper abdomen above the navel

The abdomen extends from the lower part of the chest to the groin, and pain may originate from any organ within it. The upper part of the digestive tract — the stomach, duodenum, and bile ducts — is supplied with blood through the celiac arterial trunk, and distension of these organs is projected to the epigastrium, the area above the navel along the midline. Visceral (internal organ) pain is poorly localized: the person points to the middle of the abdomen rather than to a specific point. Nearby are the gallbladder, pancreas, and kidneys.

Epigastric pain: main causes

Some types of upper abdominal pain are associated with common conditions. Clinical guidelines list combinations of symptoms and likely causes: bloating and gas — accumulation of gas; fullness after eating, heartburn, and nausea — indigestion (dyspepsia); infrequent stools — constipation; watery stools with vomiting — intestinal infection or food poisoning.

A separate group consists of acute surgical conditions grouped under the term "acute abdomen": acute cholecystitis, acute pancreatitis, perforation of a gastric or duodenal ulcer, peritonitis. They are recognized by a combination of signs rather than by a single location of pain.

Pain above the navel under the ribs and on the sides

If the abdomen hurts under the ribs on the right, gallstones are among the causes: the pain with them is severe, lasts up to 8 hours, and is localized in the center of the abdomen or just under the ribs on the right. Kidney stones cause severe pain radiating to the groin and pain during urination. Referred pain appears in other areas with intense irritation of an organ, so pain in the chest, neck, or shoulder together with abdominal pain is considered a sign requiring immediate help.

Aching, sharp, and paroxysmal pain: what the character of the pain indicates

By mechanism, visceral, somatic, and referred pain are distinguished. Visceral pain arises in the organ itself: distressing, with sweating, nausea, vomiting, and pallor, and is poorly localized. Somatic pain is associated with irritation of the parietal peritoneum and mesentery: it is intense and well localized. Distension of a hollow organ produces cramping, intermittent pain. By course, pain is classified as acute (up to 3 months), chronic, and recurrent — recurring over 3 months at least 3 times. Intensity does not equal danger: severe pain does not always mean a serious problem, and moderate pain does not exclude one.

How the cause of pain is determined: diagnosis

The doctor clarifies the location, character, and duration of the pain and accompanying symptoms, then prescribes examinations. The list of additional methods for acute pain includes a complete blood count (inflammatory activity), a plain abdominal radiograph in the upright position (obstruction, perforation), abdominal ultrasound (kidneys, gallbladder, pancreas), and esophagogastroduodenoscopy if bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract is suspected. If moderate pain persists for a week or longer or is combined with other symptoms, one should consult a doctor without waiting for it to worsen.

Warning signs: when urgent help is needed

One should seek medical attention without delay if abdominal pain is accompanied by at least one of the following signs:

• the pain suddenly became significantly more severe;
• blood appeared in the stool, unusual bleeding, or vaginal discharge;
• diarrhea or vomiting does not resolve for several days;
• a lump can be felt in the abdomen;
• pain, bloating, or fullness after eating does not resolve or returns.

During pregnancy, abdominal pain is a reason to seek help without delay.

Abdominal pain by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance. Calling 103 or 112 is necessary if the pain began suddenly and is very severe; if there is blood in the vomit, it is green or resembles coffee grounds; if there is a lot of blood from the anus or the stool is black and sticky; if it is impossible to urinate or stool and gas are not passed; if a rash appears that does not blanch when pressed; if it is difficult to breathe.

This material is for reference purposes and does not replace consultation with a doctor: the diagnosis and scope of examinations are determined by the doctor.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer