What area is causing pain slightly below and to the left of the navel?

Nov 09, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Shen Yonghua

Introduction

In general, pain slightly below and to the left of the navel may be related to the colon, left kidney, left inguinal region, ovary, or left ureter. The specific analysis is as follows: Colitis can cause intestinal spasms, leading to pain slightly below and to the left of the navel. If a patient has a tumor in the colon, especially in the sigmoid colon, pain in this area may occur when the tumor invades or compresses nearby nerves.

Pain slightly below and to the left of the navel is generally associated with the colon, left kidney, left inguinal region, ovary, or left ureter. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Colon

Colitis may cause intestinal spasms, leading to pain slightly below and to the left of the navel. If a tumor is present in the colon—particularly in the sigmoid colon—pain in this area may occur when the tumor invades or compresses nerves. Patients may take medications such as methylprednisolone tablets or dexamethasone tablets as directed by a physician.

2. Left Kidney

Diseases of the left kidney, such as nephritis, kidney stones, or tumors, may also cause pain slightly below and to the left of the navel. Patients may be prescribed antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets or cefixime capsules under medical guidance.

3. Left Inguinal Region

Inguinal hernia or femoral hernia on the left side, including incarcerated abdominal wall hernias, may present as a noticeable lump in the left inguinal area, accompanied by varying degrees of distension, dull ache, or colicky pain. Medications such as anethole trithione tablets or acetaminophen tablets may be used as directed by a doctor.

4. Ovary

For female patients, pain slightly below and to the left of the navel could be due to oophoritis (inflammation of the ovary), where inflammatory irritation of nerves causes discomfort. Treatment may include metronidazole tablets or levofloxacin tablets as prescribed.

5. Left Ureter

Ureteritis is usually caused by infection with pathogens such as Escherichia coli or Proteus species. Inflammation in the left ureter can lead to pain in the lower left abdomen near the navel. Patients may take medications such as levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules or amoxicillin capsules as directed by their physician.

If a patient experiences any discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.

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What causes pain at the navel?

The navel, commonly referred to as the belly button, may cause pain due to various reasons such as cold exposure, constipation, omphalitis, acute gastroenteritis, or colitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. During recovery, consume light, easily digestible semi-liquid foods such as millet porridge or vegetable congee, eat smaller meals more frequently, and maintain adequate nutrition.