What are the causes of left lower abdominal pain?
Aug 29, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, left lower abdominal pain may be caused by various factors such as ovulation, muscle strain, intestinal obstruction, pelvic inflammatory disease, or colitis. Excessive exercise or sudden twisting movements can lead to strain of the muscles or ligaments in the lower left abdomen, resulting in pain. Rest, ice application, and local analgesics such as ibuprofen tablets or enteric-coated aspirin tablets can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Generally, left lower abdominal pain may be caused by various factors such as ovulation, muscle strain, intestinal obstruction, pelvic inflammatory disease, or colitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Ovulation
Women may experience mild left lower abdominal pain during ovulation, known as mittelschmerz (ovulation pain). This discomfort can be relieved with heat application or light physical activity.
2. Muscle Strain
Excessive exercise or sudden twisting movements may lead to strain of the muscles or ligaments in the left lower abdomen, causing pain. Adequate rest and avoidance of strenuous activities can help alleviate symptoms.
3. Intestinal Obstruction
Intestinal obstruction may result from inflammation, previous surgery, or other causes, leading to increased pressure within the intestines that stimulates nerve endings in the intestinal wall and causes pain. Symptoms may include vomiting and bloating. Medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime granules, or domperidone tablets may be taken as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.
4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is often caused by infection. Infections affecting organs within the female pelvis—such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries—can lead to left lower abdominal pain. Additional symptoms may include fever and pain during intercourse. Treatment may involve antibiotics such as levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, azithromycin tablets, or cefixime tablets, used under medical supervision.
5. Colitis
Colitis may be triggered by infections, environmental factors, or other conditions, resulting in inflammation and swelling of the colon lining, which irritates the intestinal nerves and causes pain. Other common symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, and other bowel function disturbances. Treatment options may include sulfasalazine enteric-coated tablets, mesalazine enteric-coated tablets, or Guben Yichang tablets, used as directed by a healthcare provider.
Maintain a light diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and engage in moderate physical activity regularly.
