Left Side Stomach Pain: Causes, Abnormalities, & Treatment

What Causes for Left Side Stomach Pain?

If not due to gas, here are some causes of left side stomach pain:

Appendicitis

Appendicitis pain typically starts near the belly button but may be initially perceived on the left side before moving to the right. Untreated appendicitis can cause severe complications. Watch for pain shifting to the right abdomen, accompanied by fever, nausea, and vomiting, and seek immediate medical care.

Diverticulosis

It is an inflammation of the diverticula pouches in the large intestine. It leads to abdominal pain, fever, and nausea. It is not a severe condition, and it can be treated.

Stones in the kidneys

Kidney stones, or nephrolithiasis, are painful calcium or uric acid deposits in the kidneys. Symptoms include left-sided or back pain, painful urination, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest emergency room if you experience these symptoms.

Constipation

Constipation, often leading to left-sided abdominal pain, is typically due to factors like insufficient exercise, dehydration, or a low-fibre diet. While most cases don't require emergency care, they can be relieved by increasing physical activity and staying hydrated.

Ulcers in the stomach

Stomach ulcers, or gastritis, are sores in the stomach lining often caused by infections or excessive use of NSAIDs. Symptoms include upper left side pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloody or black stools or vomit. While they can heal on their own, proper treatment is necessary to prevent recurrence.

Symptoms, Abnormalities and When to Consult a Doctor?

Stomach pain on the left side is widespread and can be treated. If you frequently feel pain on the left side of your stomach, consult your nearest gastroenterologist. If you experience pain on the left side of your body in conjunction with any of the following symptoms, you should consult a doctor:

What are the Treatments for Left Side Stomach Pain?

Pain in the abdomen that lasts more than a week when dealing with left side stomach pain, effective treatment depends on identifying the underlying cause. Here are some approaches:

Gas Relief:

If the pain is due to gas, over-the-counter remedies and medications like simethicone can help alleviate discomfort by breaking down gas bubbles in the digestive tract.

Diverticulitis Management:

For diverticulitis, treatment often involves antibiotics to address the infection, along with dietary modifications such as a clear liquid or low-fibre diet during acute episodes, gradually transitioning to a high-fibre diet once inflammation subsides.

Appendicitis Surgery:

Appendicitis typically requires surgical removal of the inflamed appendix (appendectomy) to prevent rupture and serious complications. This is usually done urgently once diagnosed.

Kidney Stone Treatment:

Treatment for kidney stones may involve pain management with medication, increased fluid intake to help flush out stones, or procedures like lithotripsy to break up larger stones for easier passage.

Constipation Relief:

For constipation-related pain, lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and regular exercise can help promote regular bowel movements and alleviate discomfort.

Ulcer Management:

Treatment for stomach ulcers often involves a combination of medications to reduce stomach acid production, antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori bacteria if present, and lifestyle changes such as avoiding irritants like NSAIDs and alcohol.