Upper Stomach Pain: Causes & How to Relieve

Upper stomach pain, also known as epigastric pain, often signals health issues like reflux, gastritis, or indigestion. Sometimes, it can indicate more serious problems like gallbladder inflammation, pancreatitis, or even a heart attack.

While most cases of upper stomach pain are not alarming, they may come with symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating, or diarrhea.

Source: Nausea is a symptom commonly associated with an upset stomach or uneasiness of the stomach.

If your upper stomach pain is severe, persists for several hours, or is accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, chest tightness, or fainting, it's important to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest emergency room for evaluation.

What is Upper Stomach Pain?

Upper stomach pain affects both adults and children and can stem from various organs located in that area, such as the intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Common causes include indigestion, heartburn, gas, or a stomach virus.

Since the causes of upper stomach pain vary widely from harmless to potentially serious, it's crucial to seek medical advice if you experience such pain. While it can be very uncomfortable, there are steps you can take to ease the discomfort associated with upper stomach pain.

What Causes Upper Stomach Pain?

Source: Cause of upper stomach or upper abdominal pain, including indigestion, gas, and gastritis.

There are various reasons why you might have pain in your upper stomach, including:

- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, often causing sharp pain in the upper abdomen.

- Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon, leading to pain in the upper abdomen, usually on the left side.

- Gallstones: Hardened deposits in the gallbladder, causing intense pain in the upper-right abdomen.

- Gas: Build-up of air or gas in the digestive tract, resulting in bloating and discomfort in the upper abdomen.

- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, causing burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen.

- Indigestion: Difficulty digesting food, leading to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen.

- Liver Issues: Conditions affecting the liver, such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease, may cause pain in the upper-right abdomen.

- Muscle Strain or Injury: Strain or injury to muscles in the upper abdomen can result in localized pain.

- Bowel Blockage: Obstruction in the intestines, causing severe pain and bloating in the upper abdomen.

- Stomach Virus: Viral infections affect the stomach, often causing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Your discomfort, whether it's gradual or sudden, dull or sharp, can help your doctor figure out what's causing the pain. Once they diagnose the issue, they'll recommend the right treatment for you.

7 Easy Remedies for Upper Stomach Pain

Ways to Ease Upper Stomach Pain:

1. Heating Pad

Place a warm heating pad or bottle on your stomach for 15 to 20 minutes. 

The heat can relax tense muscles and may ease indigestion or constipation. 

You can also try taking a warm bath as another heat remedy, especially if your stomach pain is due to stress or indigestion.

2. Avoid Lying Flat

If you're feeling upper stomach pain from indigestion, gas, or bloating, lying flat can make it worse. Instead, try propping yourself up with pillows or sitting upright. 

Some studies suggest that sitting upright or slightly elevated can bring more relief from stomach discomfort.

3. Aloe Vera

Using natural remedies such as aloe juice can help soothe upper stomach pain, promote regular bowel movements, aid in protein digestion, reduce inflammation, and restore a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut.

 Aloe vera juice is particularly helpful for easing symptoms like heartburn, gas, nausea, and vomiting. This ingredient is found in Cumargold.

Source: Aloe Vera supplements have been found to work rather well when it comes to upper stomach pain.

4. Stay Hydrated

Stomach pain can sometimes be due to dehydration. 

Drinking water throughout the day can help ease discomfort by rehydrating your body. Remember to sip water gradually rather than drinking it all at once.

5. Ginger

Ginger is a popular natural remedy for an upset stomach. It's known to provide relief from nausea, vomiting, and sometimes constipation. You can consume ginger in various forms such as food, tea, or ginger ale to soothe your stomach.

6. Mint

Peppermint oil, found in mints, offers relief for gastrointestinal discomfort. Mint can be consumed raw, cooked, or as a tea. 

Peppermint oil has soothing properties that can relax tense muscles, reduce inflammation, alleviate nausea, and ease stomach pains. It can also help manage conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and relieve stress contributing to pain.

7. Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been a traditional remedy for inflammation and digestive issues in Asia for centuries. Modern research has verified its effectiveness, showing that cinnamon contains antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.

You can incorporate cinnamon into your diet by using its stick or powder form with meals, or by drinking cinnamon tea. Due to its wide-ranging benefits, cinnamon is a versatile option for alleviating upper stomach pain, whether it's due to gas, bloating, or cramping.

Conclusion

While home remedies can often suffice for treating upper stomach pain, it's crucial to recognize warning signs of potentially serious issues. If you experience severe, frequent, or persistent stomach problems, consulting a doctor is advisable.

Seek medical attention if you encounter the following symptoms:

- Persistent or uncontrollable vomiting

- Persistent or uncontrollable diarrhea

- Chronic constipation or diarrhea

- Fever

- Presence of blood in vomit or stool

- Dizziness or lightheadedness

- Pain during urination

- Sharp, severe pain

If you suddenly experience sharp pain, immediate medical attention is necessary. Before attempting new home remedies for upper stomach pain, it's wise to consult your doctor, especially if your symptoms suggest a more serious condition.