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What to do if you’re having upper abdominal symptoms, reflux, or nausea

If you’re having reflux, nausea, bloating, or upper belly pain — here’s how we help figure out what’s going on and what to do next.

Updated this week

Dealing with Upper Abdominal Pain? We Can Help!

If you’re experiencing upper abdominal pain, reflux, heartburn, nausea, or bloating, we understand how uncomfortable and frustrating it can be. That’s why we’re here to help figure out what’s going on and what your body needs next.

This guide will walk you through what to share when you reach out and what we’ll look for together.

🟢 Start here: What are you feeling?

To start, let us know what symptoms you’re experiencing. Do any of these apply:

  • Burning in the chest or throat

  • Sour or bitter taste in the mouth

  • Pain or pressure in the upper middle or left abdomen

  • Bloating or nausea after meals

  • Pain worse when lying down

  • Feeling full quickly when eating

  • Appetite changes

  • Nausea without vomiting

🟡 Next: Are there any red flag symptoms?

While most cases of upper abdominal pain are not serious, there are some symptoms that may require immediate attention. Please let us know immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • Vomiting blood or coffee-ground–like material

  • Black, tarry stool

  • Unintentional weight loss

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Chest pain that radiates or worsens with exertion

  • Fever and chills

  • Abdominal swelling

  • Severe or unrelenting pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek urgent in-person evaluation.

🔍 What we’ll ask:

To help narrow down the cause of your upper abdominal pain, we may ask you some questions, such as:

  • How long have you had symptoms?

  • What makes them worse or better (e.g., food, stress, lying down)?

  • Any recent medication changes?

  • Have you had similar symptoms in the past?

  • Do you take NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin), iron, or steroids?

  • Any history of ulcers, reflux, or H. pylori?

✅ What we might recommend:

Based on the information you share with us, we may recommend the following:

  • Suggest acid reducers (H2 blockers or PPIs) for short-term relief

  • Adjust your current meds

  • Offer food/lifestyle strategies to reduce triggers

  • Recommend testing (e.g., H. pylori, labs, or referral for endoscopy)

🧭 What helps us help you:

To help us provide the best care for you, please consider sending us the following information:

  • A timeline of your symptoms

  • A photo of any medications you’re taking

  • Notes on food triggers or what you’ve tried so far

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are serious, it’s always okay to message us. We’re here to help you understand what’s going on and what comes next.

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