What Causes a Burning Sensation in the Upper Abdomen in Females?

A burning sensation in the upper abdomen is a common complaint among women and can arise from a range of conditions, many of which can be promptly evaluated and managed at Immediate Care of Oklahoma. While some causes are not unique to females, factors such as hormonal changes or reproductive health may contribute to symptoms.

One of the most frequent causes is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and discomfort. Other possible causes include gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) and peptic ulcers, both of which can cause a persistent burning pain. The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or excessive alcohol can worsen these conditions.

Indigestion (dyspepsia) is another common culprit, often presenting with burning, bloating, or nausea after meals. Conditions like gallbladder disease (such as gallstones or cholecystitis) and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) can also result in upper abdominal pain, sometimes radiating to the back.

On occasion, certain heart conditions—including angina—can present as upper abdominal discomfort rather than classic chest pain, particularly in women. Additionally, stress and anxiety may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms, including a burning sensation. Although rare, more serious conditions like stomach cancer can also present with persistent upper abdominal discomfort.

A burning sensation in the upper abdomen can be uncomfortable and concerning, especially if it persists or keeps coming back. At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, we often see patients—both women and men—who experience this gnawing or burning pain. One possible cause is a peptic ulcer, which is a sore that forms on the lining of the stomach, upper small intestine, or lower esophagus due to damage from stomach acid.

If you have a peptic ulcer, you might notice:

● Burning pain in the upper abdomen, often between meals or at night

● Temporary relief after eating, drinking milk, or taking antacids

● Bloating, nausea, or a feeling of fullness

Sometimes, more serious complications can occur, such as bleeding ulcers. Signs include vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s important to remember that a burning sensation in the upper abdomen isn’t always caused by a peptic ulcer. Other conditions—like gastritis, acid reflux, gallbladder disease, or even heart issues—can cause similar discomfort. This is why it’s crucial to get a proper medical evaluation, especially if the pain is severe or doesn’t go away.

A burning sensation in the upper abdomen can be caused by a wide range of conditions, from mild digestive issues to more serious medical concerns. At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, Dr. Kevin Penwell, D.O., encourage all patients—especially women—to monitor their symptoms closely. If your abdominal discomfort is severe, persistent, or worsening over time, it’s important to seek prompt medical attention.

You should visit Immediate Care of Oklahoma or consult Dr. Kevin Penwell, D.O., if your burning sensation is accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), black or bloody stools, or chest pain. These signs could indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate evaluation.

Women with a history of gastrointestinal problems—such as ulcers, GERD, or gallbladder disease—should be particularly vigilant about any new or unusual symptoms. Early assessment by an experienced physician like Dr. Penwell at Immediate Care of Oklahoma can help diagnose the underlying cause and ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment, helping to prevent complications.

We understand that a burning sensation in the upper abdomen can be uncomfortable and concerning, especially for our female patients. Our experienced medical team is committed to providing prompt, thorough, and compassionate care to help you find answers and relief.

When you visit Immediate Care of Oklahoma with upper abdominal discomfort, your evaluation begins with a detailed medical history. Our providers will ask about the onset, duration, and character of your symptoms, as well as associated issues such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, or changes in bowel habits. We also review dietary habits, medication use (especially NSAIDs), menstrual history, and any personal or family history of digestive or gynecological conditions.

A careful physical examination is performed to check for tenderness, swelling, or other abdominal findings. Depending on your individual symptoms and risk factors, our team may recommend on-site laboratory tests to check for infection, anemia, or liver issues. Stool testing may also be available to identify signs of GI bleeding or infection.

If further evaluation is needed, we can coordinate imaging studies—such as abdominal ultrasound—or refer for specialized tests like upper endoscopy to investigate conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gallbladder disease. We also offer non-invasive testing for Helicobacter pylori infection, a common cause of upper abdominal burning. If you’re experiencing a burning sensation in your upper abdomen, don’t wait to seek care. Walk in or schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations across Oklahoma. Our compassionate providers are here to help you feel better—fast. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Oklahoma City, OK. We serve patients from West Moore OK, Norman (HealthPlex) OK, Norman (24th) OK, Edmond OK, Yukon OK, I-240 & Sooner RD OK, Tecumseh OK, and Bethany OK.