What causes acute pain in the lower left abdomen?
Generally, acute pain in the lower left abdomen is caused by factors such as improper diet, sports injuries, urinary tract infections, acute appendicitis, or ureteral stones. Management may include general measures or medication under a doctor's guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Improper Diet
Consuming excessive greasy, spicy, or irritating foods, or having irregular eating habits, may lead to intestinal spasms and cause acute lower left abdominal pain. A light diet rich in vegetables and fruits is recommended.
2. Sports Injury
Vigorous or improper exercise may result in muscle or joint injury, leading to acute lower left abdominal pain. It is advisable to follow a reasonable exercise plan and avoid intense physical activity that could harm the body.
3. Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections are usually caused by pathogens such as bacteria or mycoplasma growing and multiplying in the urinary tract. Infections may lead to inflammation of the ureters or bladder, causing pain in the lower left abdomen. Symptoms may include frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination. Patients may take medications such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, levofloxacin tablets, or azithromycin dispersible tablets as directed by a physician.
4. Acute Appendicitis
Acute appendicitis is typically caused by bacterial invasion of the appendix wall, resulting in infection. Although appendicitis usually causes right-sided pain, changes in the position of the appendix or spread of inflammation may sometimes cause pain in the lower left abdomen. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as metronidazole tablets, levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, or clindamycin hydrochloride capsules.
5. Ureteral Stones
Ureteral stones are usually formed when kidney stones move down into the ureter. A stone obstructing the left ureter can cause severe pain, which may radiate to the lower abdomen or perineum, along with symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and dysuria. Under medical supervision, patients may use medications such as progesterone injection, Youshitong pills, or racemic hyoscine butylbromide tablets for treatment.
Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods, and engaging in regular exercise to enhance immune function are recommended in daily life.