Abdominal pain can be a very distressing symptom. Manchester Surgical Clinic has specialists who deal with emergency general surgery conditions which cause abdominal pain and have expertise in finding the cause and treating it.
Upper abdominal pain can be either localised or generalised. The abdomen contains many organs therefore it is not always possible to clearly identify the cause of the discomfort. The diagram of the abdomen below highlights areas on the abdomen that correspond to the various conditions that present with abdominal pain.
Many causes of upper abdominal pain are associated with symptoms such as:
- abdominal bloating,
- nausea,
- sickness,
- vomiting,
- diarrhoea and
- weight loss.
Common causes of upper abdominal pain include:
- Gallstones
- Stomach ulcer
- Pancreatitis
- Gastritis
- Heartburn
The investigation of upper abdominal pain usually involves an ultrasound scan (performed with jelly on the skin) as the first test for most patients (see diagnostics).
In some patients either a CT (Computed Tomography) scan or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is required. Your surgeon will decide which investigation you require based on the symptoms you are experiencing. Abdominal pain symptoms are investigated along with blood tests, scans and possible fibre-optic endoscopic examination (camera test).
Manchester Surgical Clinic will fully investigate all aspects of your pain or discomfort and guide you to the most suitable investigation and possible treatment that you may require.
Abdominal Pain
