Any pain may intensify after eating a large meal, especially with high-fat content. Indigestion is also referred to as functional dyspepsia, upset stomach, or dyspepsia. It is not a disease. It is a collection of common symptoms.
Common causes of indigestion may include one or more of the following:
- Excessive eating
- Fast easting
- Consumption of spicy or greasy foods
- Overdose of caffeine, carbonated beverages, or alcohol
- Smoking
- Anxiety
- Antibiotics, vitamins/supplements, and pain relievers
The most common symptoms are discomfort, pain, and bloating in the upper abdomen immediately preceding eating. Maybe your indigestion lasts for more than two weeks and does not respond well. Simple treatment may indicate something more serious.
We consider abdominal pain radiating to the arm, neck, or jaw a medical emergency. Physical examination and patient history are part of the initial diagnosis. Laboratory tests if the patient suddenly experiences symptoms may happen.
Pain under the ribs may be related to injury-related causes. Any injury to the abdomen can lead to internal bleeding if left unattended. These injuries may be because of sports injuries, accidents, or medical procedures.
The following injuries may include:
- Organ rupture – The most vulnerable is the spleen.
- Lower left rib fracture – A broken rib can cause damage to the kidney, spleen, or lung.
- Collapsed lower left lung – It could cause significant pain. It may occur in any part of the left lung, such as the center.
During pain pregnancy
Internal bleeding happens in an ectopic pregnancy where the fetus grows inside the fallopian tube instead of the uterus. It irritates the nerves and causes discomfort or pain in the shoulders and upper abdomen. You may experience severe pain if the fallopian tube begins to rupture, which is a life-threatening emergency.
Constipation and heartburn during normal pregnancy can cause pain in the upper left quadrant. However, pre-eclampsia can cause high blood pressure and general upper abdominal pain.
When bending over
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causes burning and discomfort after a meal, which you will feel when bending over. Another possible cause is an inguinal hernia. Soft tissues in the abdomen stick out through the muscles, causing symptoms like pain.
When it’s radiating to the back
Kidney stones or chronic pancreatitis are the two most common causes of pain radiating to the back.
Chronic pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis refers to the worsening inflammation of the pancreas. It does not improve, which becomes life-threatening.
The following are possible causes of chronic pancreatitis:
- Genetic factors
- Alcoholism
- A blocked pancreatic duct
- Autoimmune disease
Men from ages 30 to 40 with a family history of the disease and a history of alcoholism are most prone. However, anyone can have it. The most common symptoms include:
- severe pain in the abdomen and back while or after eating
- vomiting and nausea
- weight loss, and diarrhea.
The pancreas controls blood sugar levels by releasing insulin. It is also responsible for secreting digestive enzymes. Chronic pancreatitis could lead to malnutrition, chronic pain, diabetes, or permanent pancreatic damage.
A typical diagnosis would include an x-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound, physical examination, and patient history. Treatment could involve medication, surgical procedures, or both. A change in lifestyle through exercise, diet and stress management can help alleviate the issue.
Kidney stone
Renal lithiasis, nephrolithiasis, or kidney stones, are solid particles that form inside the kidney. Concentrated urine causes minerals to crystallize, forming stones.
The leading causes of kidney stones are as follows:
- A personal or family history of kidney stones
- Not drinking enough water
- High sugar, salt, or protein diets
- Obesity
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Digestive conditions or diseases, including gastric bypass surgery
- Hereditary disorders or metabolic conditions
Common symptoms you will encounter are pain in the abdomen, back, or side.
You can also have urine of different colors, including:
- brown
- pink
- or red urine
Some other signs to look out for include:
- pain during urination
- vomiting
- and sometimes fever.
Diagnosis would include urine tests, imaging, and blood test.
Depending on the doctor’s assessment, you can pass smaller stones by drinking over-the-counter pain relievers and extra water. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to help pass the stone. Larger stones may involve a surgical procedure.
