Middle pain can be a common occurrence in adults. It can arise due to various reasons and can cause discomfort and sometimes severe pain.

Although most middle pain is not serious, some cases might be indicative of underlying health issues that require medical attention. Below are five serious causes of middle pain you should not neglect.

1. Gallstones

Gallstones are hard deposits in the gallbladder, a small organ located on the right side of the abdomen below the liver.

They are made up of cholesterol, bile salts, or bilirubin, which can cause excruciating pain in the chest, right shoulder, or middle back. Risk factors include obesity, a diet high in cholesterol or fat, and type 2 diabetes. If you experience persistent middle pain or pain in your upper right abdomen accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or fever, seek medical attention.

2. Peptic Ulcer

A peptic ulcer is a sore that forms in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus. The most common symptom is a burning or gnawing pain in the middle of the abdomen that may start or worsen at night or after eating.

Other symptoms may include bloating, nausea, vomiting, and unintended weight loss. Peptic ulcers can be caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), smoking, and alcohol consumption.

If you experience persistent middle pain left untreated, a peptic ulcer can lead to significant blood loss or perforation of the stomach or intestine.

3. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach. It can cause persistent, severe pain in the middle of the abdomen that may radiate to the back. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, fever, and rapid pulse.

Pancreatitis can be caused by alcohol consumption, gallstones, high levels of triglycerides, infections, and certain medications. If you experience persistent middle pain that worsens after eating or drinking or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, rapid pulse, or severe vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits that form inside the kidneys and can cause intense pain in the back or side that may radiate to the groin or abdomen. You may also experience nausea, vomiting, and a frequent urge to urinate.

Kidney stones can be caused by dehydration, a diet high in sodium or protein, certain medications, and metabolic disorders. If you experience middle pain or flank pain accompanied by persistent nausea, vomiting, or fever, seek medical attention immediately.

5. Aortic Aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of the aorta, the body’s main blood vessel that runs from the heart down through the abdomen.

It can cause a sudden, severe pain in the middle of the abdomen or in the back, which may radiate to the chest or neck. Other symptoms can include dizziness, sweating, rapid pulse, and low blood pressure. Aortic aneurysms can be caused by high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and genetic disorders.

If you experience sudden, severe middle pain that is accompanied by symptoms like dizziness, sweating, or low blood pressure, seek immediate medical attention.

Conclusion

Middle pain can be a common occurrence in adults, but sometimes it can be indicative of serious underlying health issues that require medical attention.

If you experience persistent or severe middle pain or accompanying symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can lead to a better prognosis and prevent complications.