Pain in the lower left abdomen near the navel, black stool
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
In general, pain in the lower left abdomen near the navel accompanied by black stools may be caused by factors such as constipation, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, or colitis. It could also result from other conditions including gastric ulcers, pancreatitis, or intestinal tumors. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Patients should maintain a balanced diet, eat small meals frequently, adopt healthy lifestyle habits, and engage in appropriate physical activity.
Generally, pain in the lower left abdomen accompanied by black stool may be caused by factors such as constipation, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, or colitis. The details are as follows:
1. Constipation
In patients with constipation, stool may remain in the intestines for prolonged periods, leading to decomposition and darkening, which results in black stool. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as difficulty defecating, bloating, and abdominal pain. It is recommended that patients maintain a balanced diet, adopt healthy lifestyle habits, consume more high-fiber foods, drink plenty of water, engage in appropriate physical activity, and develop a routine bowel movement habit. Laxatives such as lactulose oral solution,麻仁润肠丸 (Ma Ren润Chang pills), and glycerin suppositories should be used according to medical advice to relieve symptoms.
2. Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Blood exposed to digestive fluids and oxidation turns black and is then excreted in the stool, resulting in black or even tarry stools. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting blood, dizziness, palpitations, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to hemorrhagic shock. Patients are advised to seek prompt medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment.
3. Colitis
Patients with colitis may experience symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Occasionally, mucus, pus, or bloody stools may occur. Patients should ensure adequate rest, maintain dietary hygiene, eat small frequent meals, consume easily digestible foods, and avoid raw, cold, spicy, or irritating foods. Prompt medical consultation and active treatment are essential to prevent disease progression.
Besides the above three causes, other possible conditions include gastric ulcers, pancreatitis, or intestinal tumors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician.
