What are the possible causes of left lower abdominal pain?
Sep 13, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, left lower abdominal pain may be caused by irregular eating habits, intense physical activity after meals, cold exposure to the abdomen, pelvic inflammatory disease, gastroenteritis, or other reasons. It is important to maintain good lifestyle habits, eat a balanced diet, exercise in moderation, and keep a positive mood, which can help prevent and relieve left lower abdominal pain. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
Generally, left lower abdominal pain may be caused by irregular eating habits, intense physical activity after meals, cold exposure to the abdomen, pelvic inflammatory disease, gastroenteritis, and other reasons. 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. Irregular Eating Habits
Long-term irregular eating habits, such as overeating, or consuming excessive spicy or cold foods, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and lead to gastrointestinal dysfunction, resulting in left lower abdominal pain. Maintaining regular meal times and consuming light, easily digestible foods—such as lotus root, Chinese yam, and pumpkin—can help reduce the burden on the digestive system.
2. Intense Physical Activity After Meals
Engaging in vigorous exercise immediately after eating may cause intestinal spasms or strain, leading to sharp pain in the left lower abdomen. It is advisable to avoid strenuous activity right after meals and allow for adequate rest instead.
3. Cold Exposure to the Abdomen
Wearing insufficient clothing in cold weather may easily lead to cooling of the left lower abdomen, triggering spasmodic intestinal pain. Attention should be paid to keeping the abdomen warm to prevent chilling. Drinking warm water or applying a warm compress to the abdomen may help alleviate discomfort.
4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Poor menstrual hygiene, decreased immunity, or pathogenic infections may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease. When pelvic tissues become congested, swollen, or exhibit inflammatory exudation, the peritoneum in the left lower abdomen may be stimulated, causing pain, often accompanied by sensations of heaviness, menstrual irregularities, and other symptoms. Treatment may include medications such as metronidazole tablets, Jingangteng capsules, or Kangfu anti-inflammatory suppositories, as prescribed by a doctor.
5. Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is commonly associated with excessive alcohol consumption, irritation from spicy foods, or parasitic infections. When inflammation affects the sigmoid colon and descending colon in the left lower abdomen, it can cause severe pain, typically accompanied by diarrhea, fever, and other symptoms. Treatment may involve medications such as loperamide hydrochloride capsules, atropine sulfate tablets, or omeprazole enteric-coated tablets, used under medical supervision.
It is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, eat a balanced diet, exercise moderately, and maintain a positive mood, all of which can help prevent and relieve left lower abdominal pain.
