Left side stomach pain

Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons people consult a doctor. There are several factors that cause left side stomach pain. Abdominal pain can be localized or intermittent. The factors that cause left side stomach pain range from mild to severe. Abdominal pain, no matter how small or big, should be addressed as soon as possible. Acting on resolving abdominal pain can ensure that you get treated early, especially in cases of serious conditions.

Organs on the Left Side of the Stomach

The left side of the abdomen contains several vital organs, whose dysfunction can cause pain or discomfort on the left side. The following organs are on the left side of the abdominal area:

• The lower left abdomen consists of the left ovary, the ureter, the uterus, and the small and large intestines.
• The upper left abdomen consists of the stomach, pancreas, left lobe of the liver, left side of the colon, and the spleen.

The several organs on the left side of the abdomen can cause pain that ranges from mild and manageable to sharp and radiating. Doctors can analyse the functionality of these organs alongside the symptoms you are exhibiting to reach a diagnosis.

Causes of Left Side Stomach Pain

There can be several causes for pain in your belly area. Stomach pain is a common condition. The pain can occur at varying intensities depending on the cause of the pain and location. While stomachaches are common and generally harmless, sometimes they can indicate a bigger issue. To understand the causes of left side stomach pain, you must understand if the pain is localized or intermittent. Let’s discuss the causes of left side stomach pain.

1. Digestive Issues

Digestion-related conditions like indigestion are fairly common. Typically, they are non-serious and can be resolved with medications and rest. Left side stomach pain could indicate problems like gas, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, food poisoning, and more.

• Gas: When gas is trapped in the body, particularly in the stomach, it can cause pain, cramps, and discomfort. The pain from trapped gas usually feels sharp and can be concentrated on one side.
• IBS: Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a chronic condition that causes cramping, bloating, and pain on either side of the abdomen. People with IBS are sensitive to indigestion and acidity, often dealing with changes in bowel habits.
• Gastritis: Gastritis is a fairly common condition. The lining of your stomach can get inflamed, which leads to pain in the upper left side of the abdomen. 
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea can be a non-serious symptom, caused by contaminated food or water, or due to intolerances or sensitivities. Non-serious diarrhea can be resolved with over-the-counter medication. 

2. Serious Conditions

• Kidney stones: Kidney stones can cause a sharp pain that radiates across the abdomen, to the sides, and the back. 
• Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, leading to pain in the upper left abdominal area. This pain can spread to the back, too.
• Other Infections: An infection in any of the organs on the left side of the abdomen, or the general abdominal area, can lead to radiating pain, discomfort, cramps, or more.

3. Female Reproductive Conditions

In females, any serious condition related to the reproductive organs could lead to debilitating left side stomach pain.

• Endometriosis: Endometriosis causes tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus to grow outside the uterus. This condition can be debilitating, causing pain in the pelvis and abdominal area.
• Ovarian cysts:  While most cysts don't cause symptoms, large cysts can cause pain on the side where the cyst is located. Cysts can cause pain in the left side of the stomach. If cysts rupture, it can be a serious condition.
• Menstrual cramps: Menstrual cramps are relatively common. Sometimes, they can be indicators of more serious conditions, especially if they are severe or persistent even after taking pain-relieving medicine. These cramps can be felt in the lower abdomen, and sometimes radiate to the lower back or even the legs. 

Serious Condition Underlying Left Side Stomach Pain

Pain on the left side of the stomach can be a symptom of serious or chronic conditions. These conditions include:

• GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, commonly known as acid reflux, can cause pain in the upper abdomen, which sometimes radiates to the sides. In some cases, acid reflux pain can travel to the chest, too, causing discomfort. In more serious cases of acid reflux, the pain and discomfort in the chest may mimic symptoms of a heart attack.

• Splenomegaly

The spleen is one of the many organs located on the left side of your abdomen. Typically, the spleen is the size of a fist, approximately. However, problems in the liver, such as infections or liver disease, can enlarge the spleen. This condition is called Splenomegaly. Splenomegaly can cause left side stomach pain.

• IBD

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a chronic condition that can cause pain in the stomach. The intestines occupy the majority of the abdominal cavity, and IBD affects the digestive tract. Inflammation of the bowels can cause pain across the abdomen, oftentimes radiating to the sides and lower abdomen.

• Intestinal Obstruction

Intestinal obstruction refers to a blockage in the intestines. This prevents food or stool from passing through. It can lead to a significant amount of pain in  the stomach. Intestinal obstruction can cause other symptoms, too, like vomiting, abdominal swelling, inability to pass stool, and more. If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

• Hernia

A hernia looks like a lump in the abdominal or groin area, often accompanied by significant pain. A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall. If you are experiencing the above symptoms, it is best to seek medical care. There are different types of hernia that require different treatments. Hernias do not fix themselves; they require medical attention.

• Kidney Conditions

The most common symptom of kidney stones is pain in your lower back, belly or side (flank pain).

Kidney stones are relatively common, and one of the first signs is abdominal pain. Small kidney stones can be resolved without serious medical intervention. Bigger stones may require medication or surgery.

• Cancer

Cancer cells clumping together in the abdominal cavity or pelvic cavity can lead to abdominal pain. Cancer that particularly affects the organs on the left side of the abdomen, such as pancreatic cancer, colon cancer, and ovarian cancer, can cause left side abdomen pain.

Left Side Stomach Pain Reasons for Female

While most of the reasons for the left side stomach pain in females are similar to males, there are a few variations. Left side stomach pain in women may also be related to a reproductive condition. Left side stomach pain reasons for females include:

• Menstrual cramps

Menstrual cramps can differ in each person by intensity or area affected. Some feel the pain in the lower abdomen, while some feel the pain on either side. Menstrual cramps are also often accompanied by pain in the lower back and legs, and pain in the vulva or anus. When the uterus contracts, causing cramps, the action can affect the rectum and pelvic floor. If the pain comes and goes, it could be a common symptom of menstruation. However, if the pain is debilitating, persistent, and does not go away with pain-relieving medication, it could be a symptom of something more serious.

• Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy refers to when a fertilized egg implants itself outside the uterus. The most common place for an ectopic pregnancy to occur is the fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancies are life-threatening and require emergency treatment. If the ectopic pregnancy has occurred in the left fallopian tube, the individual could feel pain on the left side of their stomach.

• Endometriosis

Endometriosis causes uterine lining-like tissue to grow in places other than the uterus. Endometriosis pain is primarily concentrated in the pelvic region, oftentimes radiating to other parts of the abdominal area. Treatment for endometriosis often involves medications and surgery.

• Ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts are relatively common, especially in those diagnosed with PCOD. Ovarian cysts can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes if caught early. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required. If the cyst has occurred on the left ovary, it can cause left side abdomen pain. 

Home Remedies for Stomach Pain

Stomach pain from common causes like indigestion, gas, etc., can be solved with some lifestyle and dietary changes at home. If you are looking for home remedies for stomach pain, keep reading:

• Ginger

Ginger can help reduce nausea and vomiting caused by digestive issues like indigestion. Ginger can also combat nausea brought on by chemotherapy treatment or pregnancy-related morning sickness. You can consume ginger as tea or as ginger ale. Ginger tea and ginger ale have become common drinks available at supermarkets now. 

• Baking soda

Baking soda could help relieve heartburn and indigestion. It reduces stomach acidity, so acid reflux is reduced. It is not the most pleasant taste in the world, but it works for an upset stomach. Be mindful of the quantity as overconsumption of baking soda can cause shallow or slow breathing, diarrhea, vomiting, irritability, muscle spasms, and more.

• Figs

Figs and other dry fruits are excellent sources of nutrients that can help settle an upset stomach. Figs contain natural laxatives that may ease constipation and encourage healthy bowel movement. A specific compound in figs can also ease indigestion.

• Aloe vera

Aloe vera is one of the most beneficial home remedies for inflammation. Aloe vera may reduce symptoms of IBS and Colitis. Some healthcare professionals suggest that drinking aloe vera juice can help reduce heartburn, flatulence or belching, nausea, and acid reflux.

• Basil

Basil is rich in compounds like eugenol, which provides anti-inflammatory properties. It can ease common stomach pain caused by inflammation. Basil also has good fiber content, which can improve bowel movements and prevent constipation.

• Drink Water

This may seem like a simple, too-good-to-be-true remedy, but water can ease so many symptoms of various ailments. Hydration is the key to recovery. Drinking an adequate amount of water every day can dramatically improve digestion, reducing the chances of an upset stomach. Drinking water can also reduce the effects of heartburn and regulate body temperature.

When to Contact a Doctor

Get medical help right away if you:

• Are currently being treated for cancer
• Are unable to pass stool, especially if you are also vomiting
• Are vomiting blood or have blood in your stool (especially if bright red, maroon or dark, tarry black)
• Have chest, neck, or shoulder pain
• Have sudden, sharp abdominal pain
• Have pain in, or between, your shoulder blades with nausea
• Have tenderness in your belly, or your belly is rigid and hard to the touch
• Are pregnant or could be pregnant
• Had a recent injury to your abdomen
• Have difficulty breathing

Get medical help right away if you:

• Abdominal discomfort that lasts 1 week or longer
• Abdominal pain that does not improve in 24 to 48 hours, or becomes more severe and frequent and occurs with nausea and vomiting
• Bloating that persists for more than 2 days
• Burning sensation when you urinate or frequent urination
• Diarrhea for more than 5 days
• Fever, over 100°F (37.7°C) for adults or 100.4°F (38°C) for children, with pain
• Prolonged poor appetite
• Prolonged vaginal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss
• Unable to keep down any foods or liquids

Conclusion

Abdominal pain symptoms can vary depending on the cause. It is crucial that you recognize the symptoms and seek medical consultation when required. Sometimes, common symptoms can be a sign of an underlying serious condition. Pain and discomfort, no matter how severe, should not be ignored under any circumstances. Early intervention and medical treatment can save you time, money, and even your life.