Epigastric Pain: Causes, Related Conditions, and What to Do

When you feel a sharp or burning ache just below your ribs, you’re likely dealing with epigastric pain, a discomfort centered in the upper middle part of the abdomen, often tied to digestion. It’s not just indigestion—it’s your body’s way of saying something’s off in the stomach, esophagus, or nearby organs. Many people ignore it, thinking it’s just from eating too fast or too much. But if it keeps coming back, it could be something deeper.

GERD, a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus is one of the most common causes. You might notice it after meals, when lying down, or even at night. Peptic ulcers, sores in the stomach lining or upper intestine can cause similar pain, often relieved temporarily by food but returning later. And sometimes, the issue isn’t acid at all—it’s your body not making enough digestive enzymes, proteins that break down food so your body can absorb nutrients. If you’re bloated, gassy, or have oily stools after eating fatty meals, enzyme deficiency could be the hidden culprit.

Epigastric pain doesn’t always mean something serious, but it’s not something to shrug off either. It can overlap with conditions like gallbladder issues, pancreatitis, or even heart problems. That’s why tracking when it happens—after eating, during stress, at night—is key. So is knowing what makes it better or worse. Some people find relief with antacids; others need to adjust their diet or even stop certain medications.

The posts below cover real situations where epigastric pain shows up—not as a standalone symptom, but as part of a bigger picture. You’ll find guides on how digestive enzymes help or hurt, how IBS-Mixed can mimic ulcer pain, why some meds trigger stomach issues, and when herbal supplements make things worse. There’s also advice on when to see a doctor instead of reaching for an OTC pill. This isn’t about guessing what’s wrong. It’s about understanding what’s really happening in your body—and what to do next.