What Causes Light Pulsation Sensation In Upper Abdominal Area?

Posted on Mon, 31 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 Answered on

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am getting a light pulse feeling in my upper abdomen area. What could be the cause of this and is this something serious? I do not feel any pain.

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
If pulsation in abdomen is persistent and increasing then consult doctor

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.

I have read through your query in detail.
Please find my observations below.

1. The abdominal aorta is a large vessel which transmits blood from the heart to the structures below the diaphragm. In thin people, the aortic pulsation is well felt at times, especially during anxiety.

2. Rarely, there might be an abnormal condition of the abdominal aorta causing it to enlarge and form an aneurysm and this is a serious condition.

3. If the pulsations are being felt more regularly and increasing in intensity then I suggest that you consult your doctor and then confirm any suspicion of abnormal aortic enlargement causing the pulse to be felt.

Please feel free to correct any oversight in my interpretation of your problems and discuss them in detail as per your requirements.

Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.

Regards,
Dr.Vivek

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar