If you have been researching the internet about “left side stomach pain,” then you are in the right place. Left stomach side pain means that you feel pain in the lower-left side of the abdomen.
There are several possible causes of this type of pain, which can be painful for men and women. This article explains why people get stomach pains, the causes, treatment, and when to see a doctor.
Why Do People Get Stomach Pain?
Let’s be clear; there are numerous reasons why you could be getting stomach pain. Some are very common, and most of us have had them at one point in our lives. However, some injuries are more unusual and can be a cause of concern.
For example, a painful or swollen belly is often a sign of a condition called diverticulitis. The pain can be sharp, dull, or a combination of both. A bellyache may be a disease symptom such as an infection or a gastrointestinal (GI) problem, including a GI bleed.
What Causes Left Stomach Side Pain?
There are several conditions of the digestive tract that may cause pain on the left lower stomach side, including:
- Chronic constipation
- Diverticulitis (colonic inflammation due to an abnormal pocket)
- Food intolerances such as lactose intolerance, which make dairy products difficult to digest
- Gastrointestinal infection caused by bacteria, parasites, or viruses
- Excess gas
- Celiac disease (intestinal damage caused by gluten from wheat and other grains)
- Diseases related to the intestines, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS); intestinal discomfort without causing damage or disease
- Abdominal hernia (occurs when weak areas of the abdominal muscles cause the intestine to protrude)
Women can experience left stomach side pain for the following reasons;
- Endometriosis: An abdominal problem that causes pain, especially during and before a period
- Period cramps
- Ovarian cysts
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Pain that occurs when the fetus grows inside the fallopian tubes instead of the uterus. Ectopic pregnancy may occur within the first ten weeks of pregnancy.
It is essential to consult a physician immediately if you experience left stomach pain, as it may signify a serious problem.
A gastrointestinal disorder such as peptic ulcer disease or gastritis is usually responsible for left stomach left side abdominal pain. An infection in the abdomen or appendicitis could also contribute to left-sided stomach pain.
Treatment for Left Stomach Side Pain
There are many types of treatment for pain, which will depend on the conditions or diseases causing it. As a remedy for lower abdominal pain caused by diverticulitis, you may need antibiotics and rest. In other cases, such as a hernia or an intestinal blockage, surgery will be necessary.
Your doctor may prescribe dietary adjustments and laxatives in severe cases of constipation and gas. Chronic lower abdominal pain, such as Crohn’s or IBS, can be managed better with a more careful diet.
Dietary exclusion is sometimes necessary to treat food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance.
When to See a Doctor
If abdominal pain goes away and does not return, treatment may not be necessary. You should, however, consult your doctor if you experience severe abdominal pain.
The following symptoms are chronic:
- Having blood in your vomit
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Intense or escalating pain
- Fever and pain
- Chest pain, cough, or difficulty breathing
- Abdominal tenderness
- Pain accompanied by diarrhea
- A prolonged episode of constipation
- Stool containing blood
- Vomiting or nausea with pain
Keep an eye out for any of these severe symptoms, especially if they persist for more than two to three days. Visit the doctor right away if you notice any of them.
You must take left stomach side pain seriously, as the symptoms may indicate other health issues.
If you feel pain in the left side of your abdomen, contact us.