Understanding Lower Left Abdominal Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Medical Attention

What’s Causing Pain in My Lower Left Abdomen?

The lower left side of the abdomen can be a source of pain due to various underlying causes. While minor pain in this area is often harmless and may resolve on its own, it is important to seek medical help if the pain is sudden or accompanied by symptoms such as fever or vomiting. In this article, we will explore common causes of lower left abdominal pain, their symptoms, and available treatments. We will also discuss when it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Common Causes

1. Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches, called diverticula, form in the colon and become infected or inflamed. Symptoms may include fever, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, and abdominal tenderness. Treatment options range from rest, dietary changes, and antibiotics for mild cases to surgery for severe or recurring diverticulitis.

2. Gas: Excessive gas in the digestive tract can lead to pain, bloating, and discomfort. While gas is usually not a cause for concern, persistent or accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, unintentional weight loss, heartburn, or blood in the stool, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

3. Indigestion: Indigestion commonly occurs after eating and is characterized by acid irritation in the esophagus, stomach, or bowel. While the pain is typically felt in the upper abdomen, it can also affect the lower abdomen in rare cases. Symptoms of indigestion include heartburn, a burning sensation in the stomach, feeling full or bloated, belching, passing gas, and nausea. If indigestion persists or worsens, medical attention should be sought.

4. Hernia: A hernia occurs when an internal organ protrudes through the surrounding muscle or tissue. This can cause a lump or bulge in the lower abdomen, groin, or upper thigh areas. Symptoms may include increasing size of the bulge, increasing pain, pain when lifting, a dull ache, and a feeling of fullness. Different types of hernias have specific symptoms, and it is crucial to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

   a. Inguinal Hernia: An inguinal hernia is more common in males but can also occur in females. It happens when fat or a portion of the small intestine pushes through a weak area in the lower abdomen. Symptoms include a bulge in the pubic or groin area, pain that worsens with straining or physical activity, weakness or heaviness in the groin, and a swollen or enlarged scrotum. Prompt medical attention is necessary for this type of hernia.

5. Kidney Stones: Kidney stones are solid masses of crystals that form in the urinary tract. When the stones move within the kidney or into the ureter, they can cause severe pain on one side of the abdomen or back, under the ribs. Additional symptoms include discolored or smelly urine, painful or frequent urination, nausea or vomiting, and fever or chills. While the exact cause of kidney stones is unknown, approximately 10% of the U.S. population is affected at least once in their lifetime.

6. Shingles: Shingles is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus responsible for chickenpox. After the initial infection, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate later in life as shingles, typically after the age of 50. The primary symptom of shingles is a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body, often in the form of a stripe of blisters. Other symptoms may include burning, numbness, itching, tingling, sensitivity to touch, and the formation of scabs. Seeking medical attention promptly is essential to manage symptoms and minimize potential complications.

A Note on Sex and Gender

In this article, the terms “female” and “male” are used to reflect the anatomy and chromosomes assigned at birth. It is important to recognize that individuals may identify differently or have different anatomical variations. The terms are used here for medical context and clarity.

FAQ

1. What are the common causes of lower left abdominal pain?

   • Diverticulitis
   • Gas
   • Indigestion
   • Hernia (including inguinal hernia)
   • Kidney stones
   • Shingles

2. What are the symptoms of diverticulitis?

   • Fever
   • Nausea or vomiting
   • Diarrhea or constipation
   • Abdominal tenderness

3. When should I consult a doctor for lower left abdominal pain?

   • If the pain is sudden or severe
   • If there are accompanying symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or bloody stools
   • If there is persistent nausea or vomiting
   • If there is unexplained weight loss
   • If the abdomen is swollen
   • If the skin appears yellow (jaundice)

Takeaway

Lower left abdominal pain can have various causes, including diverticulitis, gas, indigestion, hernias, kidney stones, and shingles. While some cases may resolve on their own or with conservative measures, it is important to seek medical attention if the pain is severe, accompanied by specific symptoms, or persists. Proper diagnosis and timely treatment can help alleviate discomfort and prevent potential complications.

Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain in Females

1. Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea)

   • Cramps occur before and during the menstrual period.
   • Usually not serious, but seek medical advice if:
     • Cramps interfere with daily activities.
     • Pain worsens over time.
     • Cramps become more severe after age 25.

2. Endometriosis

   • Tissue similar to uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing abdominal pain.
   • Other symptoms include:
     • Painful menstrual cramps worsening with time.
     • Pain during sex.
     • Painful bowel movements or urination.
     • Heavy menstrual periods.
     • Spotting between periods.
   • The cause is unknown; work with a doctor for monitoring.

3. Ovarian Cyst

   • A sac filled with fluid inside or on the surface of an ovary.
   • Most cysts are asymptomatic and resolve without treatment.
   • Large cysts may cause discomfort, pressure on the bladder, and frequent urination.
   • Ruptured cysts may lead to severe pain or internal bleeding.
   • Seek immediate medical help for sudden, severe abdominal pain, pain with fever or vomiting, or signs of shock.

4. Ovarian Torsion

   • Large ovarian cysts may cause the ovary to twist, cutting off blood supply.
   • Usually happens during reproductive years, with pregnancy or hormonal use.
   • Surgery is needed to untwist or remove the affected ovary.
   • See a doctor if you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain with vomiting.

5. Ectopic Pregnancy

   • Fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in the fallopian tubes.
   • Symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, breast soreness, missed period, vaginal bleeding, discomfort with urination or bowel movements, and pain in the shoulder, abdomen, neck, or pelvis.
   • Seek medical attention if you suspect ectopic pregnancy, even if the pregnancy test is negative and it’s still early.
   • A ruptured ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency requiring surgery; seek help if feeling sick, dizzy, faint, or looking very pale.

6. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

   • An infection of the female reproductive system, often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea.
   • Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, vaginal discharge with a bad odor, pain or bleeding with sex, a burning sensation with urination, and bleeding between periods.
   • Consult a doctor if you suspect exposure to an STI or have genital symptoms like unusual sores.

Conclusion

Lower abdominal pain in females can be caused by various conditions such as menstrual cramps, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, ovarian torsion, ectopic pregnancy, and pelvic inflammatory disease. While some causes may not be serious, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation if the pain is severe, worsens over time, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for managing these conditions effectively.

Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain in Males

1. Testicular Torsion

   • In testicular torsion, the testicle rotates, reducing blood flow and causing severe pain and swelling.
   • Commonly occurs in males after birth and between ages 12 and 18 years.
   • Symptoms include sudden and severe scrotum pain and swelling, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, painful urination, and fever.
   • Testicular torsion is a serious condition. Seek immediate medical emergency assistance, even if the pain subsides. Surgery may be necessary to prevent testicular damage.

Conclusion

Lower abdominal pain in males can be caused by conditions such as testicular torsion. Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. If you experience sudden and severe scrotum pain or other associated symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical help promptly to prevent potential complications and preserve testicular function.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lower Left Abdominal Pain

1. What Organ is in the Lower Left Abdomen?

   The lower left quadrant of the abdomen contains various organs, including:

   • Parts of the small intestine
   • The distal descending and sigmoid colon
   • The ureter of the left kidney
   • Parts of the reproductive organ system (for some individuals)
     • Left ovary and uterine tube in females

2. When Should I Worry about Lower Left Side Pain?

   While mild lower left abdominal pain is common and often resolves on its own, it’s important to seek medical help if you experience the following:

   • Sharp, sudden, and severe onset of pain
   • Presence of other symptoms such as fever, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, bloody stools and urine, unexplained weight loss
   • Signs of shock, such as cold and clammy skin, rapid breathing, lightheadedness, or weakness

3. Why Does My Lower Left Abdomen Hurt When I Take a Deep Breath?

   Lower left abdominal pain that occurs when taking a deep breath may be attributed to various causes, including:

   • Hernia
   • Kidney stones
   • Testicular or ovarian torsion
   • Diverticulitis
   • Diaphragm injury

   It is recommended to seek medical attention if the pain worsens or if you develop additional symptoms like fever, nausea, or vomiting.

Takeaway

Lower left abdominal pain is usually not a cause for major concern and may resolve on its own. However, if the pain is sudden, sharp, or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, or vomiting, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Proper evaluation and diagnosis by a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.