The epigastric region in medical practice serves as a projection reference point for internal organs. Another name for this zone is the epigastrium. Given the localization of the pain syndrome, the doctor, during the examination of the patient, identifies the site of the lesion, and also establishes a preliminary diagnosis. Where is the epigastric region located? The epigastrium is located directly below the xiphoid process. The epigastric region corresponds to the projection of the stomach on the anterior wall of the peritoneum.
Clinical picture
Pain in the epigastric region occurs with pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. In order to determine which part of the digestive organ is affected, it is required to establish the intensity of pain sensations from the midline of the body. Soreness of a dull or acute, as well as aching and bursting nature, may indicate gastritis or a stomach ulcer. In these cases, the patient feels discomfort in the sternum along the esophagus. As a rule, pain is not associated with physical activity. However, discomfort can also occur in connection with a violation of the diet. Usually the pancreas begins to disturb fans of spicy and sour foods, strong coffee and other products. During the period of greatest exacerbation, vomiting is observed. After it, the sensations of soreness usually disappear. To avoid such attacks, you should strictly follow the diet prescribed by the doctor. To relieve such symptoms, it is recommended to apply a warm heating pad to the epigastric region, drink weak tea or hot water.
Meal time
In case of discomfort in the epigastrium, it is necessary to establish its connection with the use of food. When attacks occur half an hour or an hour after eating, the pain is called early. Its duration usually fluctuates between 1-1.5 hours. After the food masses enter the intestines from the stomach, such sensations disappear. If, after eating, one and a half to three hours have passed, and the epigastric region has begun to disturb, then it is called late. This is due to the penetration of gastric juice into the duodenum, causing irritation of its mucous membranes. Patients who exhibit these symptoms tend to experience "hunger pains". They begin 6-7 hours after eating and end after a meal. People suffering from an ulcer of any organ in the digestive system experience pain at night. They usually arise from 11 pm and last until about 3 am.
Body posture and physical tension
When the stomach is prolapsed, the pain increases significantly when the human body is in a verticalposition. In the case of adhesions to the surrounding organs, sensations are aggravated by lifting weights and changing the position of the body.
Character and intensity
Diseases of the stomach are most often accompanied by aching or cramping pains. They are usually moderately intense. However, perforation of a gastric ulcer is characterized by severe "dagger" pains. In addition, ulcerative pathologies are characterized by the frequency of attacks (pain alternates with the stage of absence of symptoms), the seasonality of exacerbation (manifested mainly in the spring and autumn and disappears in the summer).
Treatment
To achieve the highest efficiency, complex therapy is used to reduce stomach acidity, heal ulcers, destroy harmful bacteria, as well as a sparing diet. Epigastric pain can be reduced by antacids, which tend to envelop the gastric mucosa. In the treatment of malignant tumors, only narcotic analgesics bring relief, without which therapy is impossible.
