What causes pain on the left side of the abdomen?
Sep 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
Left-sided abdominal pain may be caused by poor posture, trauma, gastritis, gastric ulcer, kidney stones, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital for a thorough evaluation to establish an accurate diagnosis and receive active treatment under a doctor's guidance, so as to prevent worsening of symptoms. During treatment, adequate rest is important, and excessive or strenuous physical activity should be avoided to help alleviate symptoms.
Left-sided abdominal pain may be caused by poor posture, trauma, gastritis, gastric ulcer, kidney stones, or other reasons.
1. Poor Posture
Prolonged incorrect posture during activities or prolonged sitting at work may lead to abdominal muscle tension or spasms, causing left-sided abdominal pain and restricted movement. It is recommended to rest more and apply ice or heat packs locally to relieve muscle tension and alleviate pain.
2. Trauma
External impacts, puncture wounds, or compression to the abdomen may cause internal blood vessel rupture, resulting in bruising or internal bleeding, leading to severe left-sided abdominal pain and muscle injury. Rest is advised, along with avoiding strenuous exercise or heavy physical labor. In cases of serious internal organ damage or bleeding, surgical repair under the guidance of a qualified physician may be required.
3. Gastritis
Inflammation of the stomach lining may result from infections, medication irritation, chronic alcohol abuse, or other causes, leading to increased gastric acid secretion that irritates the gastric mucosa. This can cause severe abdominal pain, typically located in the upper left abdomen, and may be accompanied by symptoms such as loss of appetite, acid reflux, and belching. Under medical guidance, medications such as hydrotalcite chewable tablets, sucralfate tablets, or citric bismuth potassium capsules may be taken to protect the gastric mucosa and relieve symptoms.
4. Gastric Ulcer
Damage to the stomach lining or duodenal mucosa may result in gastric ulcers, causing pain in the left side of the abdomen. Pain often worsens after eating, as food further irritates the damaged mucosa. Follow your doctor's instructions to take acid-suppressing medications such as enteric-coated rabeprazole sodium tablets, ranitidine hydrochloride capsules, or famotidine tablets to relieve symptoms.
5. Kidney Stones
Chemicals in urine may accumulate and form kidney stones. As urine flows, these stones may move from the kidneys into the ureter, causing ureteral dilation and stimulating surrounding nerves and muscle tissues. This leads to severe abdominal pain and cloudy urine. Under medical supervision, medications such as Pishikeling granules, Shenshitong granules, or ursodeoxycholic acid capsules may be used to promote stone passage and improve symptoms.
It is recommended to seek medical attention for systematic evaluation and accurate diagnosis, and to actively pursue treatment under a physician’s guidance to prevent worsening symptoms. Adequate rest should be maintained during treatment, avoiding excessive or intense physical activity, which can help alleviate symptoms.
