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Epigastric pain is felt in the middle of the upper abdomen, just below the ribcage. Occasional epigastric pain is not usually a cause for concern and may be as simple as a stomach ache from eating bad food.

There are many common digestive problems associated with epigastric pain, as well as a range of other underlying conditions that can cause pain in that area.

Serious cases may be life-threatening, and it is important to work with a doctor to understand the difference between a simple cause of epigastric pain and a more serious underlying condition.

Ten causes of epigastric pain

Epigastric pain is a common symptom of an upset stomach, which can be due to long-term gastrointestinal problems or just the occasional bout of indigestion.

1. Indigestion

Indigestion usually occurs after eating. When a person eats something, the stomach produces acid to digest the food. Sometimes, this acid can irritate the lining of the digestive system.

Indigestion can cause symptoms such as:

  • burping
  • bloating in the abdomen
  • feeling full or bloated, even if the portion size was not big
  • nausea

These symptoms are often felt alongside epigastric pain. While indigestion happens to everyone from time to time, it may be a sign that a person is intolerant of something they have recently eaten.

2. Acid reflux and GERD

Acid reflux occurs when the stomach acid used in digestion gets backed up in the food pipe (esophagus). Acid reflux usually causes pain in the chest and throat, which is commonly known as heartburn. This feeling may accompany epigastric pain or be felt on its own.

Other common symptoms of acid reflux include:

  • indigestion
  • burning or aching chest pain
  • feeling like there is a lump in the throat or chest
  • an acidic or a vomit-like taste in the mouth
  • a persistent sore throat or hoarse voice
  • a persistent cough

Ongoing acid reflux can damage the food pipe and may cause gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. People with GERD experience epigastric pain and symptoms of indigestion frequently and may require treatment and dietary changes to manage the condition.

Some cases of GERD can lead to a condition called Barrett’s esophagus, where the tissue of the food pipe starts to look like the tissue in the intestines.

3. Overeating

The stomach is very flexible. However, eating more than necessary causes the stomach to expand beyond its normal capacity.

If the stomach expands considerably, it can put pressure on the organs around the stomach and cause epigastric pain. Overeating can also cause indigestion, acid reflux, and heartburn.

4. Lactose intolerance

Lactose intolerance can be another cause of epigastric pain. People who are lactose intolerant have trouble breaking down lactose, a sugar found in milk and other dairy products.

For people with lactose intolerance, eating dairy can cause epigastric pain and other symptoms, including:

  • stomach pains
  • cramps and bloating
  • gas
  • nausea or vomiting
  • diarrhea

5. Drinking alcohol

Moderate drinking is usually not enough to upset the stomach or intestines. However, drinking too much alcohol at once or excess alcohol over long periods of time can cause inflammation in the lining of the stomach. This inflammation can lead to epigastric pain and other digestive issues.

6. Esophagitis or gastritis

Esophagitis is inflammation of the lining of the food pipe. Gastritis is inflammation of the lining of the stomach. Esophagitis and gastritis can be caused by acid reflux, infections, and irritation from certain medications. Some immune system disorders may also cause inflammation.

If this inflammation is left untreated, it can create scar tissue or bleeding. Other common symptoms include:

  • acidic or vomit-like taste in the mouth
  • persistent cough
  • burning in the chest and throat
  • trouble swallowing
  • nausea
  • vomiting or spitting up blood
  • poor nutrition

7. Hiatal hernia

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm and into the chest. This may be due to an accident or weakened diaphragm muscles.

In addition to epigastric pain, other common symptoms of hiatal hernias include:

  • sore throat
  • irritation or scratchiness in the throat
  • trouble swallowing
  • gas or especially loud burps
  • chest discomfort

Hiatal hernias typically affect older people and may not cause epigastric pain in every case.

8. Peptic ulcer disease

Peptic ulcer disease is when the lining of the stomach or small intestine has been damaged by a bacterial infection or by taking too much of certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Symptoms of peptic ulcer disease can include epigastric pain and signs of internal bleeding, such as stomach pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

9. Gallbladder disorder

Issues with the gallbladder may also cause epigastric pain. Gallstones may be blocking the opening of the gallbladder, or the gallbladder may be inflamed. Specific gallbladder symptoms can include:

  • intense pain near the upper right side of the stomach after eating
  • clay-colored stool
  • jaundice or yellowing skin
  • loss of appetite
  • gas and bloating

10. Pregnancy

It is very common to feel mild epigastric pain during pregnancy. This is commonly caused by acid reflux or pressure on the abdomen from the expanding womb. Changes in hormone levels throughout pregnancy can also aggravate acid reflux and epigastric pain.

Severe or persistent epigastric pain during pregnancy can be a sign of a more serious condition, so a woman should visit her doctor if experiencing any unusual symptoms.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the cause of epigastric pain is essential to ensure proper treatment. A healthcare professional will likely ask a series of questions about the pain and any additional symptoms.

If the cause is unclear, they may order tests, including:

  • imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or an endoscopy
  • urine tests to check for infections or bladder disorders
  • blood tests
  • cardiac tests

Treatment

Treating epigastric pain will vary according to the cause. For instance, if overeating frequently causes epigastric pain, a person may wish to eat smaller portions and ensure they are eating filling foods, such as lean proteins. They may also want to avoid foods that cause gas.

Conditions such as GERD, peptic ulcers, and Barrett’s esophagus may require long-term treatment to manage symptoms. A person should work with their doctor to find a treatment plan that works for them.

If a doctor thinks that taking certain medications is causing the condition, they may recommend switching to a new drug or reducing the dosage.

Over-the-counter or prescription antacids to help reduce frequent acid reflux and epigastric pain caused by stomach acid may be helpful.

When to see a doctor

Occasional epigastric pain is not usually a cause for concern, but anyone with severe or persistent epigastric pain should see their doctor.

Symptoms that last more than a few days or that occur more than twice a week on a regular basis would be considered persistent.

A visit to the emergency room may be necessary in some cases. Signs of severe complications that require prompt treatment include:

  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • intense pressure or squeezing pain in the chest
  • coughing up blood
  • blood in the stool
  • nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours in adults
  • high fever
  • extreme fatigue or loss of consciousness

Many cases of epigastric pain can be treated and prevented by making small changes in the diet or lifestyle. Even chronic symptoms can be managed well with medications and dietary changes.

This article is from Medical News Today – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320317.php#when-to-see-a-doctor- Pinterest

 

CT scans and MRI scans are two different medical imaging methods that create detailed images of internal body parts, such as bones, joints, and organs.

Doctors order CT scans or MRI scans to help diagnose a wide range of medical conditions. Both types of scan have similar uses, but they produce images in different ways. A CT scan uses X-rays, whereas an MRI scan uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves.

CT scans are more common and less expensive, but MRI scans produce more detailed images.

In this article, we look at the differences between CT scans and MRI scans, as well as their uses, procedures, and safety.

What are they?

Both CT scans and MRI scans allow doctors to see internal body parts.

CT scans and MRI scans are two different ways of creating detailed images of internal body parts. Doctors can then analyze the images to detect abnormalities, such as fractures in bones, tumors on organs, or joint damage.

Some people refer to a CT scan as a CAT scan, which stands for computerized axial tomography. During a CT scan, a person lies down in a large X-ray machine called a CT scanner. The scanner sends images to a computer.

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imagery. This type of scan uses radio waves and magnets to create images. During an MRI scan, a person lies down in an MRI scanner, which is a machine that creates a constant magnetic field and uses radio waves to bounce off water molecules and fat cells in the body. The scanner also sends images to a computer.

CT scans are more common and less expensive than MRIs. However, MRI scans produce a better image than CT scans.

What are their uses?

The uses of CT and MRI scans are very similar. CT scans are more common because they are less expensive and still provide good detail. A doctor may order an MRI scan when they need to create more accurate, detailed images of the body.

Common uses for a CT scan include examining or looking for:

  • tumors
  • bone fractures
  • internal bleeding
  • cancer development and response to treatment

Doctors commonly use MRI scans to diagnose issues with bones, organs, and joints, including those that affect the:

  • ankles
  • breasts
  • brain
  • heart
  • joints
  • wrists
  • blood vessels

Procedure

A person will need to lie down for a CT scan or an MRI.

Both scans usually require the person to lie down on a bed that then moves into the scanner. They will need to remain very still during the scan so that the machines can take clear images.

In both cases, the technicians will leave the room during the scan, but the person can talk to them via an intercom link.

The CT machine takes several X-ray images of the body from different angles. The machine is relatively quiet.

MRI scanners are very noisy, and a technician may offer a person earplugs or headphones to help dull the noise.

Are they safe?

CT scans and MRI scans are both very safe procedures. They may, however, pose slight risks, which differ between the types of scan.

During a CT scan, a person receives a very small dose of radiation, but doctors usually do not consider this harmful.

CT scans use ionizing radiation, which has the potential to affect biological tissues. According to the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, the risk of developing cancer from exposure to radiation is generally small.

CT scans and X-ways may not be safe during pregnancy, so doctors might recommend MRI scans or ultrasound scans instead. However, they may still avoid using MRI scans, especially during the first trimester, as a precaution.

MRI scans do not use radiation. They do, however, use strong magnetic fields. People must let their technicians know if they have any form of medical implant, such as a pacemaker, insulin pump, or cochlear implant.

MRI scans produce loud sounds, so people usually wear earplugs or headphones to dull the noise. Individuals with claustrophobia may find MRI scanners difficult to tolerate, although several types of open MRI scanner now exist to get around this problem.

For both CT scans and MRI scans, a doctor may recommend using a contrast dye to make the images clearer. Some people may react badly to certain types of dye.

Choosing the right scan

A doctor will recommend the most helpful and effective imaging procedure.

The uses of MRI and CT scans are very similar. A doctor will decide which scan is appropriate based on a range of factors, such as:

  • the medical reason for the scan
  • the level of detail that is necessary for the images
  • whether a woman is pregnant
  • whether a person has claustrophobia or other factors that might make MRI scans difficult for them to tolerate

MRI scans produce a more detailed image of soft tissue, ligaments, or organs. Problems that may be easier to see with an MRI scan include soft tissue damage, torn ligaments, and herniated disks.

Doctors may use a CT scan for creating a generalized image of a body part or for getting images of organs or head fractures.

Summary

CT scans and MRI scans are two methods of imaging internal body parts. They have similar uses but produce pictures in different ways. CT scans use X-rays while MRI scans use strong magnets and radio waves.

A CT scan is generally good for larger areas, while an MRI scan produces a better overall image of the tissue under examination. Both have risks but are relatively safe procedures. A doctor will recommend which scan is right for a person depending on a range of factors.

This article is from Medical News Today – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326839.php

The OPA are pleased to welcome aboard two new Trustees –

Mr Javed Sultan – Trustee

MSc MD FRCS Consultant Oesophago-Gastric, Bariatric & Laparoscopic Surgeon and Greater Manchester Clinical Lead for Oesophgo-Gastric Cancer

Javed Sultan started his consultant career in 2014 at Guildford, to help expand and develop the regional oesophago-gastric cancer unit for Surrey. He was a Consultant Surgeon at the largest internationally renowned Northern Oesophago-Gastric Cancer Unit (Newcastle upon Tyne) prior to his appointment at the Royal Surrey County Hospital.

 

Stephen Brinkworth – Trustee and Treasurer

Born in Cardiff, spent my childhood in the Rhondda Valley, where I attended the local Grammar School, before attending Cardiff University to study economics.

On leaving University, joined NatWest Bank when I spent the next 31 years, initially working in various Branches in S Wales and Bristol, before moving to London in 1984 to a Head Office Dept.  Took early retirement in 2003 following the Bank’s acquisition by RBS.

Upon leaving the Bank, joined the local NHS Hospital and spent 6 years as a Project Manager implementing several HR related projects.

In 2010, diagnosed with Oesophageal cancer, but fully recovered following surgery at the Royal Surrey Hospital in Guildford.

A keen sportsman over the years, having played a high level of Soccer and then Squash, and has now progressed to Lawn Bowls, and spends many hours each week on the Bowls green, not only playing but is involved in the greenkeeping duties of his local Club.

Also involved as the Treasurer for a local Probus Club, and still involved with the local Squash Club as Treasurer/Secretary.

These filling drinks pack up to 35 grams of the macronutrient in one serving!

Believe it or not, you can slurp your way to stronger muscles. While many smoothie recipes are devoid of nutrients and sneak in high amounts of sugar, high-protein smoothies can be a healthy eater’s dream if you blend wisely.

“When sipped at the right times, in the right amount and blended with the right things, smoothies can build and repair lean muscle tissue, help you feel full and satisfied and may help decrease levels of ghrelin, a hunger-related hormone,” says Jenna A. Werner, RD, creator of Happy Slim Healthy.

An ample amount of protein is a must for the biggest benefits, she suggests. “A lot of time smoothies with just fruit and juice or milk can fill us up right away, but they increase blood sugar very quickly—and bring it down even quicker. Add protein to a smoothie for a more balanced food choice. The protein will slow down digestion, keeping you fuller longer, and help prevent sugar spikes and crashes,” Werner explains. If you’re making your smoothie a meal, aim for at least 25 grams of protein. For a snack, 10 or more grams will do, Werner says. Consider adding one of these protein powders to your smoothie for an extra boost of the hunger-curbing macronutrient. So dig out your blender and give these high-protein smoothie recipes a spin.

Making Thyme for Health
Turmeric Carrot Cake Smoothie

Yogurt and walnuts crank up the protein level of this dessert-inspired smoothie recipe. With carrots (of course), 1/2 a frozen banana and a date in the mix, you’ll be well on your way to scoring your five a day of fruits and veggies, too.

Protein:13 grams

Get the recipe from Making Thyme for Health »

1 of 15
Prevention

Sweet ‘n’ Spicy Tropical Smoothie

One sip of this delicious smoothie will transport you to an island vacation. Creamy avocado provides a boost of healthy fats while coconut water helps restore electrolytes after a tough workout. Ginger works to keep tummy woes at bay, and pineapple supplies ample amounts of vitamin C.

Protein: 27.3 grams

Get the recipe from Prevention »

Sweet Peas and Saffron
Blueberry Coconut Water Smoothie Recipe

With coconut water for hydration, blueberries for ample antioxidants and Greek yogurt for protein, this is an ideal post-workout snack. “Unsweetened Greek yogurt or plain cottage cheese are both awesome additions to smoothie recipes,” Werner says. “Both can add around 15 to 20 grams of protein with simple, natural ingredients.”

Protein: 17 grams

Get the recipe from Sweet Peas and Saffron »

Live Eat Learn
Cherry Oat Smoothie

Yes, oats have protein! A whopping 13 grams per half cup (dried), in fact. A splash of milk and a scoop of yogurt give this cherry smoothie an enviable protein count, while a frozen banana makes it thick and rich.

Protein: 11 grams

Get the recipe from Live Eat Learn »

Cotter Crunch
Chia Matcha Overnight Breakfast Smoothie

One ounce of chia seeds, approximately how much is in each serving of this energizing smoothie, offers 5 grams of protein. Yogurt, milk and oats round out the protein-rich line-up of this unique and high-fiber morning meal.

Besides yogurt, “vegetarians can consider blending silken organic tofu into shakes and smoothies, too. You won’t even taste it and it will thicken things nicely,” Werner says.

Protein: 12 grams

Get the recipe from Cotter Crunch »

A Virtual Vegan Creamy Banana Smoothie

When you’re craving banana bread but have zero time to bake, turn to this single-serving smoothie. Walnuts, oats and milk provide the protein, while dates sweeten and cinnamon and nutmeg warm up the flavors.

Protein: 11 grams

Get the recipe from A Virtual Vegan »

Well Plated
Strawberry Kiwi Smoothie

Fruit smoothies aren’t always protein powerhouses, but this tropical treat is thanks to milk and oats. For an even stronger dose, Werner recommends a scoop of vanilla or strawberry protein powder. “Choose plant-based or all-natural according to your diet. Whichever you choose, powders can add a great amount of protein to your smoothies,” she says.

Protein: 11 grams

Get the recipe from Well Plated »

The Healthy Foodie
Gingerbread Smoothie

The perfect treat for the season, this smoothie has 35 grams of protein (in other words, about as much protein as six medium eggs)! You won’t even taste the beans in this cookie-inspired meal replacement once they’re blended with cinnamon, molasses, and ginger. Greek yogurt, flaxseed meal, soy milk and protein powder round out the muscle-building menu.

Protein: 35 grams

Get the recipe from The Healthy Foodie »

A Clean Bake
Mocha Protein Smoothie

Wake up to a buzzy breakfast beverage with a triple-play of protein all-stars: Greek yogurt, protein powder and tahini (sesame seed paste). You’re probably familiar with seeing the latter in hummus, but it’s a subtle smoothie star here, adding just a hint of nuttiness that pairs nicely with the cocoa. Two tablespoons of tahini provides around 6 grams of protein.

Protein: 28 grams

Get the recipe from A Clean Bake »

Jillian Michaels
Berry Vanilla Smothie

This vegan-friendly berry smoothie from Jillian Michaels boasts more than 35 grams of protein, thanks to the hemp protein powder and coconut yogurt. Enjoy it as a refreshing post-workout smoothie or an on-the-go breakfast.

Protein: 35.9 grams

Get the recipe from Prevention »

Cupcakes and Kale Chips
Blueberry Almond Butter Smoothie

Choose cottage cheese or Greek yogurt to amplify the protein power of this blueberry smoothie. If you’re watching your fat and calorie intake, try another one of Werner’s powdered picks.

“Powdered nut butters offer all the flavor of peanut or almond butters, just with much less fat,” she says. For one teaspoon of almond butter (the amount called for in this high-protein smoothie recipe), trade in one teaspoon of powdered peanut butter mixed with a half teaspoon of water.

Protein: 17 grams

Get the recipe from Cupcakes and Kale Chips »

Diabetes Strong
Vegan Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie

This high-protein peanut butter breakfast smoothie might just remind you of Chunky Monkey ice cream. Banana, cacao and vanilla protein powder make it taste like the fan-favorite dessert (just without the diet-busting nutrition stats). Be sure to go for natural peanut butter varieties to avoid added sugar.

Protein: 17 grams

Get the recipe from Diabetes Strong »

My Darling Vegan
Black Forest Smoothie

A drink that tastes like dessert is always a satisfying option—but isn’t always so waistline-friendly. (We see you, Mississippi Mudslides.) This chocolate-cherry option, however, has about twice as much protein as it has fat. Milk provides the protein while dates and cherries provide natural sugars, and spinach tacks on vitamin A, folate, and other nutrients.

Protein: 11 grams

Get the recipe from My Darling Vegan »

Cookie + Kate
Basic Blueberry Smoothie

Muffins have met their match. Almond butter and milk upgrade the protein level of this creamy, frozen fruit smoothie, while maple syrup makes it taste like a breakfast treat. For even more body benefits, try one of the optional boosters: 1/4 cup of oats or two tablespoons of flaxseed (2 1/2 grams of protein each).

Protein: 10 grams

Get the recipe from Cookie + Kat »

Prevention
Apple Crisp Smoothie

If you could have apple pie in a glass, it would be this smoothie! Made with fiber-rich rolled oats, pecans, cinnamon, and apple cider, this creamy concoction gets its high-protein content from Greek yogurt.

Protein: 13.5 grams

Get the recipe from Prevention »

Christmas is coming…………a unique gift………Order Now

Thrill your walls now with stunning print/s from the OPA’s new art gallery.
Choose from a selection of prints taken and donated by our very own Chairman David Chuter ©

£50 price for each print includes the P & P. – Prints are 20 x 16 inches approx.

See some of the prints below…

To view all the prints on sale, please click here.

So..we have listened to your suggestions about fundraising for the OPA and have some exciting news! A new fundraising pack will be available soon.

Oesophageal & gastric cancers are amongst the fastest rising most unpleasant cancers. The Oesophageal Patients Association (OPA) has led the fight against these devastating cancers for over thirty years and is not only supporting the patient, carer & their family but continue working to promote public awareness of these lesser known but rapidly increasing cancers. This will mean that many more lives can be saved through earlier diagnosis and better treatment.

Most of all we want be there to raise awareness, support and provide information to every single patient, carer and their family who is having to cope with two of the worst forms of cancer.

Please note, if you are fundraising via JustGiving or Virgin Money Giving you do not need to fill in a Permission to Fundraise Form (PE1). But please contact us to get your OPA fundraising materials!

Step 1: Permission to Fundraise Form (PE1)

Before you start fundraising for us, ensure you have either completed

a) the online PE1 form (coming soon)

or

b) the downloadable PE1 form 

or

c) you would like to obtain a PE1 form by post, by emailing charity@opa.org.uk with your full name and postal address.

RETURN POSTAL FORMS TO:   Fundraising Department, The OPA, 6 & 7 Umberslade Business Centre, Pound House Lane, Hockley Heath, Solihull, B94 5DF

Step 2: Get your Fundraising Pack

Once we have received your PE1, we will then post out a pack.

Our fundraising pack includes a t-shirt, sponsorship form, poster, collection box, bunting, balloons and much more.

Have questions or need further help?

If you have any questions or queries, please call 0121 704 9860 or email at charity@opa.org.uk and we will do our best to help.

One of the current Strictly Celebrities, Catherine Tyldesley, wearing the OPA Fiona Wade Wristband.

Catherine Tyldesley is best known for the role of Eva Price which she played on Coronation Street. Catherine can also been seen on Trollied, 15 Days and Scarborough.

The OPA would like to send a massive thank you to Catherine and Fiona.

Fiona Wade Appeal Wristbands can be ordered on the OPA Online Shop – https://www.opa.org.uk/products/fiona-wade-appeal-wristband.html