Symptoms

Often, compression of the celiac artery doesn't cause any symptoms.

However, those with MALS can have long-term (chronic) stomach pain. Signs and symptoms of MALS include:

• Pain in the upper middle stomach area, which may go away when leaning forward
• Stomach pain after eating, exercising or shifting body position
• Fear of eating food due to pain, leading to significant weight loss — usually greater than 20 pounds (9.1 kilograms)
• Bloating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea

Your doctor may hear an abnormal sound called a bruit when listening to your upper stomach area with a stethoscope. The sound occurs when a blood vessel is blocked or narrowed.

When to see a doctor

There are many different causes of stomach pain. If you have stomach pain that continues despite home care, call your doctor. You'll need a complete physical exam and tests to determine the specific cause.

If your stomach pain is severe and activity or movement makes it worse, call your doctor immediately. Seek immediate medical help if your stomach pain occurs with other concerning signs and symptoms, including:

• Bloody stools
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting that doesn't go away
• Severe tenderness when you touch your belly area
• Swelling of the belly area
• Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)

Sometimes upper stomach pain can be confused with chest pain. Get emergency help or call 911 if you have chest or upper stomach pain with or without any of the following symptoms, which might signal a heart attack.

• Pressure, fullness or tightness in your chest
• Crushing or searing pain that spreads to your jaw, neck, shoulders, and one or both arms
• Pain that lasts more than a few minutes or gets worse with activity
• Cold sweats
• Dizziness or weakness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Shortness of breath