Pain in the upper abdomen has many causes
“Gastritis” is often used for any stomach pain, but it is a specific condition — inflammation of the stomach lining — and many people who have it feel nothing at all. The pain itself is better described by its pattern and its position.
Pain in the upper middle of the abdomen points towards the oesophagus, stomach or duodenum. Pain in the right upper abdomen, especially after fatty food, is more often related to the gallbladder. In both cases the pattern of symptoms matters as much as the pain itself.
Because these symptoms overlap with reflux, ulcers and other conditions, the assessment looks at the pattern, at any medicines you take — anti-inflammatory painkillers can irritate the stomach lining — and at whether warning signs are present. An endoscopy looks directly at the stomach lining when it is needed.
If your symptoms persist or you are unsure of the cause, arrange an assessment.