What are the possible causes of pain in the lower left side of the abdomen in males?
Generally, pain in the lower left rib area in males may be related to causes such as muscle strain or injury, gastritis, pleurisy, intercostal neuralgia, and costochondritis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Muscle strain or injury: During intense physical activity or labor, improper posture or excessive force may lead to muscle strain or injury in the lower left rib area in males, causing symptoms such as pain and swelling. This pain typically worsens with movement or touch and can be relieved with rest.
2. Gastritis: Long-term consumption of spicy or irritating foods, such as chili peppers, onions, and花椒 (Sichuan pepper), can easily irritate the gastric mucosa and lead to gastritis, which may present with symptoms like stomach pain, shortness of breath, and coldness in the stomach area. The lower left rib region is an important anatomical area for the digestive system, containing organs such as the stomach and pancreas; therefore, gastritis may cause the above symptoms. Medications such as pantoprazole enteric-coated capsules, omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, and lansoprazole enteric-coated tablets, taken under medical supervision, may help alleviate symptoms.
3. Pleurisy: Trauma may lead to bacterial infection, causing pleurisy, which can result in symptoms such as pain and difficulty breathing. Since the lower left rib area is part of the respiratory system, patients with pleurisy may experience pain in the lower left rib area when coughing. Under medical guidance, medications such as aspirin tablets, indomethacin tablets, and ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may help alleviate symptoms.
4. Intercostal neuralgia: When the chest is infected with bacteria or the herpes zoster virus, repeated irritation of the intercostal nerves can cause intercostal neuralgia, potentially leading to the above symptoms along with swelling and breathing difficulties. Treatment under medical advice may include medications such as aspirin tablets, acyclovir tablets, and amitriptyline tablets.
5. Costochondritis: Inflammation of the costal cartilage caused by bacterial infection or overuse may result in symptoms such as pain and swelling below the ribs. Patients can take medications such as nimesulide tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and prednisone tablets under a doctor's guidance. Local heat application may also help relieve symptoms.
During treatment, avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers,花椒 (Sichuan pepper), and garlic. Limit late-night activities and increase water intake to promote recovery.