Differential Diagnosis for Mid Upper Abdominal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition is characterized by stomach acid frequently flowing back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of the esophagus, causing discomfort. The symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and regurgitation, can often be mistaken for mid upper abdominal pain, making it a common diagnosis for this symptom.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: This includes both gastric and duodenal ulcers, which are open sores that develop on the inside lining of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. The most common symptoms are burning stomach pain and bleeding. The pain is typically localized to the mid upper abdomen.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Gastritis can be acute or chronic and has various causes, including infection, alcohol, and medications.
- Functional Dyspepsia: A term for recurring signs and symptoms of indigestion that have no obvious cause. Symptoms can vary but often include pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Myocardial Infarction: Although more commonly associated with chest pain, myocardial infarction (heart attack) can sometimes present with abdominal pain, especially in women, diabetics, and the elderly. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its high mortality rate if not promptly treated.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe abdominal pain, usually in the upper abdomen, and radiate to the back. It requires immediate medical attention due to potential complications.
- Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to gallstones, which can cause right upper abdominal pain, but can sometimes be more midline, especially if the gallbladder is inflamed and distended.
- Pulmonary Embolism: While typically presenting with respiratory symptoms, a pulmonary embolism can occasionally cause upper abdominal pain if the embolism affects the lung's lower parts, potentially mimicking abdominal pathology.
Rare Diagnoses
- Splenic Infarction or Rupture: Although rare, conditions affecting the spleen can cause severe left upper quadrant abdominal pain. These conditions are medical emergencies.
- Hepatic Artery Aneurysm: A rare condition where there is a bulge in the hepatic artery, which can cause abdominal pain and potentially life-threatening bleeding if it ruptures.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: More common in older adults, especially smokers, an abdominal aortic aneurysm can cause mid abdominal pain and is a medical emergency if it ruptures.