What Causes Pain on the Left Side of the Abdomen?

March 13, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Pain on the Left Side of the Abdomen

Pain on the left side of the abdomen can be caused by various factors, including:

  • Gastrointestinal issues: Conditions affecting the digestive tract can cause left-sided abdominal pain, such as:
    • Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon.
    • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
    • Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by infection, alcohol, or medications.
    • Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, commonly known as the stomach flu.
    • Colitis: Inflammation of the colon, which can be caused by infection, inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis), or ischemia.
    • Constipation: Difficulty passing stool, which can cause discomfort or pain in the lower left abdomen.
    • Gas or bloating: Excess gas in the intestines can cause distension and discomfort in the abdomen.
  • Reproductive issues: Pain in the lower left abdomen can be related to reproductive organs, such as:
    • Ovarian cysts: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can cause pain if they rupture or become enlarged.
    • Ovarian torsion: Twisting of the ovary, which can lead to severe abdominal pain and requires immediate medical attention.
    • Ectopic pregnancy: A pregnancy that implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube, which can cause sharp, stabbing pain on one side of the abdomen.
    • Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Infection of the female reproductive organs, which can cause lower abdominal pain, pelvic pain, and abnormal vaginal discharge.
  • Musculoskeletal issues: Pain in the left side of the abdomen can sometimes be due to musculoskeletal problems, such as:
    • Muscle strain: Overstretching or tearing of abdominal muscles, often caused by physical activity or lifting heavy objects.
    • Rib injuries: Fractures or injuries to the ribs can cause localized pain in the left upper abdomen.
  • Organ-related issues: Pain in the left abdomen can also be caused by problems with organs such as the spleen or pancreas:
    • Splenic rupture: A rare but serious condition in which the spleen ruptures, often due to trauma, causing severe left-sided abdominal pain.
    • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause abdominal pain that radiates to the left side.
  • Other causes: Other potential causes of left-sided abdominal pain include:
    • Kidney stones: Hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause sharp, severe pain as they pass through the urinary tract.
    • Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Infections of the urinary system, which can cause pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen.

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe abdominal pain, as it can be a symptom of a serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation and treatment.

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