[61M] Experiencing epigastric and upper back pain with associated symptoms

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a condition in which stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, and a sensation of a lump in your throat. The burning sensation in your mouth and hoarse throat could be due to acid reflux as well. You mentioned you were diagnosed with GERD a number of years ago, and your current symptoms seem consistent with this condition.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. In some cases, prescription medications or surgery might be needed.

• Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD): Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain, like the one you described. Peptic ulcers include:

  • Gastric ulcers that occur on the inside of the stomach
  • Duodenal ulcers that occur on the inside of the upper portion of your small intestine (duodenum)
  • The main cause of peptic ulcers is a long-term infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Other causes include the use of painkillers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, and other medicines.
  • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease stomach acid and antibiotics to kill H. pylori.

• Gastritis: This is an inflammation, irritation, or erosion of the lining of the stomach. It can occur suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). Gastritis can be caused by irritation due to excessive alcohol use, chronic vomiting, stress, or the use of certain medications such as aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs. It may also be caused by any of the following: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): A bacteria that lives in the mucous lining of the stomach; without treatment, the infection can lead to ulcers, and in some people, stomach cancer.

  • Treatment involves taking antacids and other drugs to reduce stomach acid, which helps relieve gastritis symptoms and promotes healing.

What you can do

• Lifestyle changes: Avoid foods, beverages, and medications that trigger your heartburn. Eat smaller meals. Don't lie down after a meal. Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed. Elevate the head of your bed if you regularly experience heartburn at night or while trying to sleep.
• Medication: Over-the-counter treatments that may help control heartburn include antacids that neutralize stomach acid, medications that reduce acid production, and medications that block acid production and heal the esophagus.

What you should look out for

• If your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to seek medical attention.
• If you experience severe abdominal pain, bloody or black stools, or bloody or black vomit, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a serious condition.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.