CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC MANUAL
Severe Pain in the Lower Chest and Upper Abdominal Area
Cause | Main Characteristics | Symptoms and Signs | Confirmatory Diagnostic Tests |
Gastritis and Gastroesophageal Reflux | Burning pain in the epigastrium, associated with meals or stressful situations | Heartburn, acid regurgitation, abdominal discomfort | Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to evaluate the gastric and oesophageal mucosa |
Biliary Colic | Intense colicky pain in the right upper quadrant | Nausea, vomiting, pain radiating to the back | Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the gallbladder and detect gallstones |
Pancreatitis | Persistent abdominal pain, may be epigastric | Nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, signs of shock | Blood tests (amylase and lipase), abdominal ultrasound, and in some cases, computed tomography (CT) |
Acute Myocardial Infarction (Typically Inferior) | Crushing pain, a sensation of pressure or burning in the centre of the chest | Shortness of breath, sweating, pain radiating to the left arm or jaw | Electrocardiogram (ECG), cardiac enzymes (troponin), echocardiogram, and coronary angiography if necessary |
Comentários