There are many different reasons for stomach discomfort on the left side, ranging from minor to serious ailments. Gastrointestinal problems including gas, constipation, or indigestion are common reasons and usually result in left abdominal pain or cramping.
In addition, chronic or sporadic left side stomach discomfort might be a symptom of illnesses including diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or gastritis.
Localised left-sided stomach discomfort may occasionally be an indication of more serious disorders such as kidney stones, pancreatitis, or inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease. Other symptoms may include fever, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits.
Gas and bloating are signs of excess gas in the intestines, which can cause discomfort and stabbing, intense sensations on the left side of the belly.
Constipation: Stool accumulation from constipation can cause pain and cramping on the left side of the abdomen.
Diverticulitis: This condition, which is characterised by fever, nausea, and altered bowel habits, can produce left-sided abdominal pain due to inflammation or infection of the colon’s tiny pouches, called diverticula.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause stomach discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. Although the strength of the pain varies, it usually affects the lower left side.
Kidney stones: If the stone is in the left kidney, the lower left abdomen may experience radiating pain.
Urinary tract infection (UTI): UTIs can produce lower left abdomen discomfort in addition to urinary symptoms including burning in the bladder or left kidney, frequent urination, and murky urine.
Ovarian cysts or conditions affecting the left ovary: Endometriosis or other disorders affecting the left ovary can cause left-sided stomach discomfort in women.
Ectopic pregnancy: Vaginal bleeding, lightheadedness, and significant left-sided stomach discomfort can all result from a pregnancy that implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. A medical emergency has occurred.
Pancreatitis: When the pancreas becomes inflamed, it can produce left-sided abdominal discomfort that is typically accompanied by fever, vomiting, and nausea.
Causes of Stomach Pain on the Left Side
Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), gastric ulcers, and gastric cancer are examples of conditions that can cause left-sided pain in the stomach.
Pancreatitis: Severe left upper abdomen discomfort that may extend to the back is caused by inflammation of the pancreas, which is situated behind the stomach.
Problems with the Spleen: The left side of the abdomen houses the spleen. Abdominal discomfort on the left side may be caused by splenomegaly or a splenic abscess, which are infections, enlargements, or ruptures of the spleen.
Diverticulitis: Pain that is acute or cramp-like may result from inflammation or infection of the diverticula, which are tiny pouches that can develop in the colon, on the left side of the colon.
Kidney Stones: Although the kidneys are not located in the stomach region, they can occasionally refer to discomfort that is felt in the left side of the lower abdomen.
Constipation: Prolonged constipation or a colon obstruction can make the left side of the abdomen hurt and uncomfortable.
Musculoskeletal Causes: Problems with the left side of the abdomen’s muscles, ligaments, or ribs, such as rib injuries, muscle strains, or inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (costochondritis), can result in localised discomfort.
Reproductive Organ Problems: In women, left-sided stomach discomfort may be brought on by disorders affecting the fallopian tube or left ovary, such as inflammation or ovarian cysts.
Hernia: Discomfort or pain in the lower left abdomen may result from a hernia, such as an umbilical hernia or inguinal hernia.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Along with other symptoms like diarrhoea and weight loss, conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can induce stomach discomfort, frequently on the left side.
illnesses: Abdominal discomfort, often more severe on the left side, can be caused by several illnesses, including gastrointestinal or urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Infections: Pain may arise from infections that impact many organs in the left abdomen, including colitis, gastroenteritis, and urinary tract infections.
Management of Stomach Pain on the Left Side
Bloating, indigestion, and gas can be caused by eating too much, eating too rapidly, or ingesting particular foods. To relieve pain, use over-the-counter medications.
The symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) include bloating, cramps, and altered bowel movements. A healthcare provider’s suggested drugs, stress-reduction methods, and dietary adjustments may all be part of management.
illnesses of the Gastrointestinal tract: Medication such as antibiotics or antiviral drugs may be necessary to relieve stomach discomfort brought on by bacterial or viral illnesses. Drink plenty of water and eat a bland diet till your symptoms go away.
Kidney Stones: The lower abdomen and groyne may experience radiating pain from kidney stones. Small stones can be passed with the aid of lots of fluids and pain medication taken under a doctor’s supervision. Larger stones may need to be treated by a physician.
Constipation: Pain associated with constipation can be reduced by increasing fibre consumption, drinking plenty of water, and taking over-the-counter laxatives (if prescribed by a doctor).
Menstrual Pain: Abdominal pain on the left side may result from menstrual cramps in those who were given the gender “female” at birth. Hormonal contraceptives, heating pads, and over-the-counter painkillers may all aid in symptom management.
Diverticulitis: Pain on the left side of the abdomen that develops from inflammation or infection of pouches that form in the colon. Antibiotics, a liquid diet, and, in extreme situations, surgery are common forms of treatment.
Organ-related problems: Abdominal discomfort on the left side may be brought on by diseases of the pancreas, spleen, or left kidney. The course of treatment varies according to the individual problem and may involve medication, lifestyle modifications, or surgery.
When stomach discomfort radiates to the left:
– Steer clear of heavy, oily, or spicy foods since these may make you feel more uncomfortable.
– Take it easy and steer clear of hard work.
– For comfort, use a warm compress or heating pad on the afflicted region.
– Record your symptoms for discussion with a healthcare provider, including their duration, intensity, and any related variables.
Severe or persistent left-sided stomach discomfort should be treated right once to identify the underlying cause and receive the necessary care, especially if it is accompanied by additional symptoms like vomiting, fever, blood in the stool, or difficulty breathing. If you want an accurate diagnosis and treatment choices, always contact a gastroenterologist.
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