5 Reasons You May Be Experiencing Left Abdominal Pain

Left abdominal pain is an ache or discomfort you feel towards the left side of your tummy. Although experiencing pain in the left abdomen is a common problem, frequent and persistent pain should never be ignored.

Usually, minor pain in this area is nothing to worry about and may clear up in a day or two. But if you are experiencing swelling in the abdomen, fever, or bloody stools, visit a doctor immediately as they could be a sign of a serious condition. It’s always better to get it diagnosed sooner than later!

Read on to learn more about the causes of left abdominal pain and when you should see a doctor!

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is one of the most common causes of pain, specifically in the lower left abdomen. It occurs when pouches in the intestinal wall called diverticula, become infected and inflamed. Some symptoms may include vomiting, fever, nausea, or feeling bloated. For mild diverticulitis, getting some rest and taking antibiotics may help. But for more serious cases, surgery might be required. 

Celiac disease

Celiac disease is a chronic condition that occurs in the digestive tract when a person cannot digest gluten, which is a protein found in wheat and other grains. This condition causes a person’s immune system to attack portions of their intestine, which cause a range of digestive problems. Some signs of celiac disease may include pain in the abdomen, constipation, weight loss, and diarrhoea.

Gas

Gas in the digestive tract can cause pain and discomfort in either side of the abdomen. It is usually the result of swallowing air. Generally, gas is not serious, but if the pain is persistent or is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, heartburn, or constipation, talk to your doctor. 

Indigestion

Indigestion often occurs after eating spicy, greasy, and fatty foods. Smoking or drinking can also trigger it. It typically comes with symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, or heartburn. Some over-the-counter medications can ease the discomfort.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones can cause great pain when it moves around. A person’s diet, weight, and genes are possible causes for developing kidney stones. Depending on your situation, kidney stones can be managed by taking some pain medication and drinking lots of water until they are passed out in urine, or you may need surgery if the stones become lodged in the urinary tract.

Conclusion

Seeing a doctor for abdominal pain is vital when there are unexplainable or persistent symptoms. Let your doctor know the symptoms you are experiencing so that they can help develop a treatment plan. Remember, having a healthy diet and lifestyle can decrease the chances of certain abdominal pain!