Upper Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to Pancreatic Issues?

Q: Upper Abdominal Pain: Is It Related to Pancreatic Issues?

Hello Mr. <br>Hong： I would like to know how long it has been since you started losing weight. <br>I recommend discussing your situation with your physician to hear their advice and how to proceed. <br>Director Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou

What is upper abdominal pain?

Hello doctor, I am 170 cm tall and weigh 62 kg.
I do not smoke or drink alcohol.
I would like to ask about my ongoing issues with gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers.
I do not have Helicobacter pylori, but I have been treating my ulcers for a long time, and they keep recurring.
In the past, I lost 6.7 kg due to the ulcers, but some doctors have told me that ulcers do not cause weight loss.
I was very worried about pancreatic issues, and on December 28, 2019, I had a CT scan, and the doctor said everything was fine.
However, I have a lot of gas in my abdomen.
Many people have told me that relying on medication cannot completely cure this.
I have taken both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine.
Later, I took PPIs for two months, but due to the severe pandemic, I was afraid to return for follow-up, so I self-medicated until May 2021.
As a result, I experienced acid reflux, and my stomach felt very hot.
I had a sore tongue and throat pain every day.
After that, with traditional Chinese medicine treatment, my condition gradually stabilized, but I still occasionally felt pain and discomfort.
After taking Chinese medicine for six months, I suddenly felt it was ineffective, and I started experiencing stomach pain, bloating, and indigestion again.
I was burping excessively.
On November 2, I underwent an endoscopy, and the doctor said my stomach was fine.
An abdominal ultrasound also showed normal results, and blood tests were fine.
I was prescribed a medication for ulcers, but it did not help, and I continue to experience increasing pain.
Is this related to my pancreas? Could it be cancer? My job involves sitting, so I do not get much exercise.
I also often experience lower back pain, and I am not sure if it is related to my back pain.
I wake up at night due to the pain and have trouble sleeping.
I have also lost 2.3 kg.
Could this be related to my pancreas? I have researched a lot about pancreatic issues, and it makes me more anxious.

Hong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/24

Dr. Cai Jinji reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Mr.
Hong: I would like to know how long it has been since you started losing weight.
I recommend discussing your situation with your physician to hear their advice and how to proceed.
Director Cai Jin-ji, Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/11/24

More Info

Upper abdominal pain can indeed be related to pancreatic issues, but it is essential to consider various factors before jumping to conclusions. Your symptoms, including the persistent upper abdominal pain, bloating, and weight loss, warrant a thorough evaluation.
From your description, it seems you have a history of gastric and duodenal ulcers, which can often cause similar symptoms to those associated with pancreatic disorders. The pancreas is located in the upper abdomen, and issues such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer can manifest as pain in this area. However, it is crucial to note that not all upper abdominal pain is related to the pancreas. Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, gallbladder disease, and even musculoskeletal issues can also present with similar symptoms.

Your previous CT scan indicated no pancreatic issues, which is reassuring. However, the fact that you continue to experience pain and discomfort suggests that further investigation may be necessary. It is not uncommon for patients with chronic gastrointestinal issues to experience overlapping symptoms, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact cause of pain.

Given your history of ulcers and the treatments you have undergone, it is possible that your symptoms are related to gastric acid reflux or irritation rather than a primary pancreatic issue. The use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) can help manage gastric acid levels, but if you are experiencing a rebound effect after stopping them, this could explain the resurgence of your symptoms.

Additionally, your mention of weight loss and the feeling of being unwell raises concerns that should not be overlooked. While weight loss can occur due to various reasons, including stress or dietary changes, it is essential to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Pancreatic cancer, while less common, can present with vague symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, and digestive issues, especially in individuals with risk factors.

It is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider, preferably a gastroenterologist, to discuss your ongoing symptoms and concerns. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as an MRI or endoscopic ultrasound, to evaluate the pancreas more closely. Blood tests, including markers for pancreatic function and cancer, may also be warranted to provide additional information.

In the meantime, consider lifestyle modifications that may alleviate your symptoms. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. Avoiding known irritants, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, may also help reduce symptoms.

In summary, while your upper abdominal pain could potentially be related to pancreatic issues, it is essential to consider the broader context of your gastrointestinal health. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Your concerns about pancreatic cancer are valid, but it is essential to approach this with a clear understanding of your medical history and current symptoms.

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