Epigastric pain is discomfort felt in the upper middle part of your abdomen, just below the ribs. It can affect adults and children and may feel like burning, gnawing or sharp pain. Clinically, it's often coded under ICD-10 R10.13. Identifying the exact cause-whether reflux, inflammation or another issue-is key to finding relief.
Symptoms of epigastric pain can vary in intensity and triggers. You may experience:
Because the epigastric area overlies several organs, a range of conditions can provoke pain there:
With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive digestive health solutions, GastroDoxs provides expert diagnostics and effective treatment for epigastric pain and related conditions. Our board-certified gastroenterologists in Jersey Village use advanced endoscopy, imaging, and lab testing to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort. We then craft personalized treatment plans-ranging from lifestyle and dietary adjustments to targeted medications and minimally invasive procedures-to bring you fast, lasting relief.
Book an appointment today with our epigastric pain specialist near Jersey Village and take the first step toward a more comfortable, pain-free life.
We've successfully treated more than 8.8K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
The most common code is R10.13, used for pain in the upper central belly.
Epigastric pain is felt just under your ribs in the center of your upper abdomen, whereas general belly pain can occur higher, lower, or to the sides.
Conditions like peptic ulcers or pancreatitis can cause discomfort that radiates from the upper abdomen to the back.
Yes. If epigastric pain is accompanied by significant weight loss, persistent vomiting, or blood in your stool, seek medical attention promptly.
Common causes include GERD (acid reflux), peptic ulcers, gallstones, functional dyspepsia (indigestion), pancreatitis, and sometimes heart-related issues.
Treatment may involve safe antacids, gentle exercise, and dietary adjustments. Always consult both your obstetrician and gastroenterologist before taking any medication.
If your epigastric pain persists for more than two weeks, worsens over time, or interferes with daily activities, schedule an evaluation with a gastroenterologist.
Yes. Stress can increase stomach acid production and muscle tension, which may exacerbate epigastric discomfort.
Eating stimulates acid secretion and gastric motility, which can irritate inflamed tissues or ulcers in the stomach and upper intestine.
Many patients experience relief within a few days of starting treatment, but recovery time varies based on the underlying cause and treatment plan.
