Why Does the Top of My Stomach Hurt?

Yes, indigestion—also known as dyspepsia—can cause pain or discomfort in the upper part of your stomach, also called the upper abdomen or epigastric region. At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, we often see patients with symptoms such as a burning sensation, fullness, bloating, or mild to moderate pain in this area, especially after eating. This discomfort typically occurs just below the ribs in the central part of the upper abdomen.

Common triggers for indigestion include eating too quickly, consuming fatty or spicy foods, drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages, smoking, and stress. Sometimes, indigestion may also be linked to underlying conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

While indigestion is a frequent cause of upper abdominal pain, it’s important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience severe or persistent pain, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, black or bloody stools, or difficulty swallowing, these may indicate a more serious underlying condition and require immediate medical attention.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, our experienced healthcare providers are here to help. Mild indigestion can often be managed with dietary and lifestyle changes, but if your symptoms persist or worsen, we encourage you to visit one of our convenient locations. We can help determine the cause of your discomfort and recommend the best treatment options to help you feel better quickly and safely.

If you’re experiencing pain at the top of your stomach, a stomach ulcer could be the cause. Stomach ulcers, also known as gastric ulcers, are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach. They often cause a burning or gnawing sensation in the upper abdomen, just below the ribs. This pain can be worse when your stomach is empty and may feel better temporarily after eating or taking antacids. Other symptoms may include bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, or even vomiting. In more serious cases, ulcers can lead to symptoms like vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools—these are medical emergencies that require immediate attention.

Because stomach ulcer pain can sometimes resemble other conditions—such as acid reflux, gastritis, or even heart issues—it’s important not to self-diagnose. If you’re dealing with persistent or severe upper abdominal pain, especially if it’s accompanied by symptoms like unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or signs of bleeding, seeking professional medical care is crucial.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, our experienced healthcare providers are here to help diagnose the cause of your abdominal pain. We offer prompt evaluations and can perform necessary tests to determine whether a stomach ulcer or another condition is responsible for your symptoms. Our team will work with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan to relieve your discomfort and address the underlying issue.

Gastritis is a common condition marked by inflammation of the stomach lining, known as the gastric mucosa. This inflammation can be triggered by infection (such as Helicobacter pylori), regular use of NSAIDs, excessive alcohol, stress, or certain autoimmune conditions. When inflamed, the stomach lining loses some of its protective mucus, making it more vulnerable to irritation from stomach acids.

At Immediate Care of Oklahoma, we frequently see patients experiencing upper abdominal pain—a classic sign of gastritis. This pain is typically felt in the epigastric region, just below the ribcage, and is often described as burning or gnawing. Additional symptoms may include nausea, bloating, or feeling full after eating only a small amount.

The pain from gastritis may vary in intensity and can sometimes disrupt daily activities or sleep. If left untreated, gastritis can lead to serious complications such as ulcers or bleeding, which require prompt medical attention.

If you are experiencing persistent upper stomach pain, nausea, or other digestive symptoms, it’s important to seek timely medical care. The healthcare providers at Immediate Care of Oklahoma are equipped to evaluate your symptoms, perform necessary testing if indicated, and initiate appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and management can help reduce inflammation, alleviate discomfort, and prevent complications.

Our experienced providers, including Dr. Kevin Penwell, D.O., are qualified to evaluate and diagnose the cause of upper stomach pain. As a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and founder of Immediate Care of Oklahoma, Dr. Penwell leads a team trained to assess a wide range of medical conditions, including gastrointestinal issues that can result in discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen.

When you visit Immediate Care of Oklahoma for upper stomach pain, our medical team will review your symptoms, medical history, and any relevant risk factors. A thorough physical examination will be performed, and if necessary, we can order on-site diagnostic tests such as blood work or imaging studies. We also coordinate referrals to specialists when appropriate.

Common causes of upper abdominal pain include gastritis, ulcers, gallbladder disease, acid reflux, and, in some cases, more serious conditions that require prompt attention. Our providers are committed to determining the underlying reason for your symptoms and recommending appropriate treatment or further evaluation as needed. 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.