Sometimes, stomach pain occurs specifically on one side. This can happen due to issues with the organs located on the left side or as referred pain from another area. Occasionally, left-sided stomach pain is not a serious condition. However, in some cases, it requires medical attention from a specialist.
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Causes of Left-Sided Stomach Pain
Left abdominal pain typically occurs in the area between the hip bone and ribs. Possible causes include issues with the organs located in the left abdominal cavity, such as:
- Spleen
- Kidney
- Pancreas
- Stomach
- Large Intestine
- Lung
Some conditions that may cause left-sided stomach pain include:
1. GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
Acid reflux, or GERD, often causes pain in the upper abdomen, particularly in the epigastric region. However, the pain can sometimes radiate to the left side of the stomach.
In some cases, the pain can also extend to the chest, making it difficult to distinguish from a heart attack.
2. Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is one of the causes of upper left abdominal pain due to its proximity to the liver in the abdominal cavity.
The pain may worsen after eating, drinking, or consuming high-fat foods.
3. Gastritis
Gastritis is an inflammation of the mucosal lining of the stomach. Because the stomach is located in the middle of the abdomen and slightly to the left, gastritis can cause left-sided stomach pain.
In addition to medication for gastritis, adopting a healthier diet can help alleviate this condition.
4. Enlarged Spleen (Splenomegaly)
The spleen is located on the left side of the abdomen, just below the ribs. Normally, it is about the size of a fist.
However, liver disease, infections, and certain other conditions can cause spleen enlargement, leading to splenomegaly. Upper left-sided stomach pain is a common symptom of this condition.
5. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, can also cause left-sided stomach pain since the intestines occupy much of the abdominal cavity.
Inflammatory bowel disease can cause pain not only on the left side but also in the lower abdomen or on the right side.
6. Intestinal Obstruction
A blockage or obstruction in the intestines prevents food or even stool from passing through, leading to pain in the lower left side of the stomach.
An obstruction can occur in the small or large intestine. If you experience left-sided stomach pain along with symptoms such as abdominal swelling, vomiting, inability to pass stool, or loud bowel sounds, seek medical attention immediately.
7. Hernia
If your left-sided stomach pain is accompanied by a noticeable lump in the abdomen or groin area, it may be due to a hernia.
A hernia occurs when an organ or body tissue protrudes through the abdominal wall, creating a lump.
Since there are different types of hernias, each requiring specific treatments, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the exact cause. Hernias often do not heal on their own and may require medical intervention.
8. Kidney Problems
Humans have two kidneys located on either side of the body. If your left kidney is affected, one of the symptoms may be left-sided stomach pain.
One common kidney problem that can cause pain on the left side is kidney stones.
Kidney stones typically begin to cause pain when they start blocking the urinary tract.
9. Cancer
Another potential but rare cause of left-sided stomach pain is the presence of cancerous cells.
Cancer affecting organs in the abdominal or pelvic cavity can cause left-sided stomach pain.
Some cancers that may cause left-sided stomach pain include pancreatic cancer, colon cancer, and ovarian cancer.
How to Treat Left-Sided Stomach Pain
Left-sided stomach pain is a very common symptom and can indicate various conditions. To treat it, doctors need to diagnose the underlying cause before determining the appropriate treatment.
Treatment options vary and may include medications, medical procedures, or even surgery. In some cases, dietary changes can also help alleviate pain.
You should consult a doctor immediately if your pain is accompanied by symptoms such as:
- Blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Changes in bowel habits, persistent diarrhea, or constipation
For a thorough and complete evaluation, consult an internal medicine specialist. You can visit the Digestive and Liver Center at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri for a consultation with the best specialists. Contact us via WhatsApp chat, book an appointment, or download the Care Doctor app from Google Play or the App Store.
