3. Abdominal Pain: The Unyielding Discomfort of PHG
Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper abdomen, is another symptom tied closely to PHG. The pain’s nature can vary from person to person – some might describe it as a dull ache, while others experience it as a sharp, stabbing pain.
What’s intriguing is the mechanism behind this pain. The portal venous system’s increased pressure indirectly affects the stomach lining, making it more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. As the lining becomes more inflamed, it causes discomfort, which we perceive as abdominal pain.
Furthermore, the dilated and fragile vessels in the stomach might not just bleed – they can also cause pain. Imagine these vessels as tiny pressure points; as they expand, they press against the surrounding stomach tissue, creating localized pain points. This situation becomes even more pronounced if there’s bleeding, as blood is an irritant to stomach tissue.
This pain can be intermittent, occurring in episodes, or it might be more consistent. People might notice it more after eating certain foods or when the stomach is empty. Foods that increase stomach acid, like spicy dishes or caffeine, might exacerbate the pain. (3)
