Timing and pattern
We review the precise location, duration and relationship to meals, alcohol, medicines and posture.
Upper digestive symptom
Pain around the upper abdomen may relate to the stomach, duodenum, gallbladder, pancreas or other causes.
Overview
Gastritis and ulcer disease are possibilities, but the location alone cannot establish the cause.
Gastroscopy, blood tests or abdominal ultrasound may be considered after the consultation.
Urgent signs
These findings do not identify one diagnosis, but they can change how quickly you should be assessed.
What we check
We combine the course of the symptom or result with the medical background rather than judging from one finding alone.
We review the precise location, duration and relationship to meals, alcohol, medicines and posture.
Heartburn, nausea, vomiting, early fullness, black stool, jaundice and weight loss are checked.
We review current conditions, operations, family history, alcohol and smoking, prescribed medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements.
Consultation flow
The order may change according to the symptom or result. We first review urgency and then select the appropriate evaluation.
We review when it started, how it changes and its relationship to meals or bowel movements.
Bleeding, severe pain, fever, dehydration and other findings that affect timing are reviewed.
Medical conditions, medicines, operations, screening results and previous tests are checked.
Blood, stool, imaging or endoscopy is considered according to the clinical findings.
Treatment, observation, additional testing or hospital referral is discussed from the results.
Assessment
The consultation begins by organizing the course of the symptom or screening result and checking whether prompt evaluation is needed.
Blood tests, abdominal ultrasound and gastroscopy are selected according to the symptoms and examination.
We explain the findings and decide whether treatment, observation, additional testing or referral to a hospital is appropriate.
FAQ
These are general principles. Individual testing and treatment are decided during the consultation.
Gastroscopy may be appropriate when stomach or duodenal disease is suspected, but ultrasound or other tests may be needed for other organs.
General medical consultations do not require an appointment. Please visit during clinic hours. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy are arranged separately after the required information is reviewed.
General medical information is based on public guidance from professional societies and national institutions. Individual care is determined after clinical review.
Related
Contact
Visit during clinic hours. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy requests are handled through the dedicated page.