Зміст
Stomach pain is a very common condition that, unfortunately, we ignore in many cases. It usually lasts from several minutes to several hours, is itself limited and varies in severity. The location of the pain is also important, as it can tell us which organ is affected. Abdominal pain on the left is an alarming symptom, as it can indicate serious conditions that require surgical intervention as soon as possible.
Usually then the pain is very severe and interferes with normal functioning, and also forces a certain position in which the intensity of the ailments is less. Left-sided abdominal pain can be caused by pancreatitis or gastritis, splenomegaly, adnexitis, or even an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Therefore, this symptom should not be underestimated, and a doctor should be consulted to determine its cause. What else can the abdominal pain on the left indicate?
Acute abdominal pain on the left under the ribs
Severe pain in the upper abdomen, near the left hypochondria, can be a symptom of acute pancreatitis. The pain becomes very severe, persistent and piercing and spreads down the back. Lasts up to several days and often does not go away after taking pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. It may decrease slightly when the person is leaning forward in a seated position, and may increase with deeper breathing or coughing. The pain is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, and lack of appetite.
Less intense but persistent abdominal pain on the left under the ribs may indicate chronic pancreatitis resulting from gradual organ damage. It is accompanied by flatulence, bloating, vomiting and oily diarrhea. In case of pain in the pancreas, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible, as diseases of this organ can be life-threatening.
Throbbing abdominal pain on the left
Pain in the left abdomen, described as throbbing and radiating to the lower back or perineum, may be an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Then this main artery expands and a bulge appears on it, that is, an aneurysm. The most common causes are old age, arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, or obstructive pulmonary disease.
Abdominal pain is accompanied by a feeling of fullness after eating, back pain in the lumbosacral region, leg edema and hematuria. With such symptoms, you need to consult a doctor as soon as possible, since the aneurysm can rupture, which is manifested by sudden unbearable pain. It can also cause hemorrhagic shock, visual impairment, limb paresis and loss of consciousness. The only salvation is vascular surgery.
Abdominal pain on the left under the ribs
Pain in the left hypochondria can also indicate problems with the spleen. Most often this is caused by an increase in this organ, which begins to put pressure on others. The causes of this condition can be infectious diseases, cirrhosis of the liver, spleen cysts, autoimmune diseases, or even a cold. Abdominal pain is accompanied by back pain, nausea, and bloating. Fortunately, an enlarged spleen can return to normal with proper treatment. Rapid pain in the spleen radiating to the left shoulder may indicate an organ rupture due to injury (such as a traffic accident). This causes massive bleeding and the only solution is to remove the spleen.
Abdominal pain in the upper left
Another cause of abdominal pain under the left hypochondria can be gastrointestinal diseases. Severe, dull and pressing pain may indicate a stomach ulcer or duodenal ulcer. The pain then usually appears on an empty stomach (for example, at night or in the morning) and disappears after eating.
They are cumbersome, but the patient can work with them. Antacids provide relief. This may be due to long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or infection. The latter can also lead to gastritis, which is also manifested by abdominal pain on the left. This is accompanied by symptoms of indigestion, vomiting of blood, and tarry stools.
Cramping abdominal pain in the lower left
On the left side of the abdomen, near the navel, is part of the colon or colon. Pain in this area may indicate inflammation of the colon diverticulum. They appear when the intestinal wall loses its elasticity and is under high pressure from the inside. Diverticula usually appear in the elderly, those over 40, and those on a low-fiber diet. Diverticulum presents with abdominal cramping on the left, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, fever, chills, and loose pencil stools.
Cramping pain in the lower abdomen
Severe, burning, cramping pain in the lower abdomen on the left or right can also be caused by inflammation of the appendages, that is, the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Quite common in women of childbearing age. The pain is usually diffuse and of varying intensity, radiating to the thigh and groin, and often to the lower back. The inflammation is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, unpleasant vaginal discharge, and pain during intercourse. With such symptoms, it is worth contacting a gynecologist, because untreated inflammation can even lead to infertility.
Burning pain in the abdomen on the left
In addition, an inguinal hernia may present as a burning, stabbing pain in the left abdomen that radiates to the groin or scrotum. The pain increases with deeper breathing, coughing, or lifting heavy objects. Usually a bulge also appears at this place.
