What Causes Pulsating Sensation In Upper Abdomen, Localized Swelling And Anxiety?

Posted on Fri, 19 Jun 2015

Question: I am a 55yo female with history of diabetes and a mitral valve that was replaced due to rheumatoc fever when I was 35. I am experiencing pulse in my upper abdomen. I feel some localized swelling and am feeling full though I ate 4 hours ago. Last night I felt very warm and was perspiring and felt this localized swelling/pain in my upper abdomen. I saw something about aneurysm or hernia on the web. Should I go to the ER or see my doctor on Monday?

Answered by Dr. Deepak Kishore Kaltari (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
A routine assessment by your Physician will be very reassuring

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcare-Magic
Greetings of the day

Dear Ms

Localized swelling in upper abdomen has many differential diagnosis. Aortic Aneurysm is a rare diagnosis. Based on your history of fullness in upper abdomen even after consuming food after 4 hours, possibility of delayed gastric emptying leading to fullness is the likely cause. If the swelling is non pulsatile its very much unlikely to be due to aneurysm. Even stress and anxiety could also cause increased pulsation in upper abdomen. A routine assessment by your Physician will be very reassuring.

Do get back to me if you need any further assistance, will be glad to assist you.

Take Care

Best Regards
Dr Deepak Kaltari

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E