Many conditions can cause upper stomach pain. According to the Kids Health website, what a person senses as stomach pain may be caused by stomach problems or problems in other parts of the body. Stomach pain, including upper stomach pain, may be caused by any tissues or structures located between the chest and the ilia or hip bones. Upper abdominal pain can be short-lived or long-lasting, depending on the cause of the pain.
GERD
GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or heartburn, can cause upper stomach or abdominal pains. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter opens unexpectedly or fails to close properly, allowing stomach contents such as food and digestive juices to rise into the esophagus, a tube that transports food and beverages from a person's mouth to his stomach. The lower esophageal sphincter is responsible for regulating the flow of materials between the esophagus and the stomach. Possible signs and symptoms associated with GERD include acid indigestion or burning pain behind the lower portion of the sternum or breastbone, pain in the mid abdomen, a dry cough, asthma symptoms and difficulty swallowing.
Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis can cause upper stomach pains. NIDDK states that pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, a long, thin gland and organ that sits behind the stomach in the upper abdomen. The pancreas is responsible for producing enzymes and hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and can be a life-threatening condition. Common signs and symptoms of acute pancreatitis include pain in the upper abdomen, an abdomen that's swollen and tender, nausea and vomiting, fever, and an elevated heart rate. In some cases, a person with acute pancreatitis may also experience dehydration and reduced blood pressure. In severe cases, certain organs can fail, including the heart, lungs or kidneys. According to NIDDK, with appropriate care, acute pancreatitis usually resolves in a few days.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome can cause upper stomach pains. According to MayoClinic.com, irritable bowel syndrome is a common condition that targets the large intestine or colon. Irritable bowel syndrome usually causes significant abdominal discomfort, although the disorder does not cause irreversible colon damage. Common signs and symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome include abdominal pain and cramping, the sensation of abdominal bloating, flatulence or gas, diarrhea or constipation, and mucus in the stool. MayoClinic.com states that, in most cases, once a person learns to manage her condition, irritable bowel syndrome-related symptoms improve or lessen in intensity. Certain risk factors increase a person's likelihood for developing irritable bowel syndrome, including youth, being female and having a family history of irritable bowel syndrome.
