What causes dull pain in the upper left abdomen?

Jun 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, mild pain in the left upper abdomen may be caused by factors such as abdominal chilling, improper diet, muscle strain, gastritis, or pancreatitis. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment and medication. It is recommended to keep the left upper abdomen warm, dress appropriately according to weather changes, and apply a hot water bag for abdominal heat therapy to relieve the discomfort. However, ensure the temperature is appropriate to avoid burns.

  In general, dull pain in the upper left abdomen may be caused by factors such as abdominal chilling, improper diet, muscle strain, gastritis, pancreatitis, and so on. Symptomatic management through general treatment and medication may be needed. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:

  1. Abdominal Chilling

  Failure to keep the abdomen warm enough may cause stimulation of abdominal tissues and nerves, resulting in dull pain. This type of pain usually does not last long, and symptoms may gradually subside with proper warmth. It is recommended to maintain warmth in the affected area and avoid further exposure to cold.

  2. Improper Diet

  Overeating or an unreasonable diet can increase the digestive burden on the gastrointestinal tract, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, especially noticeable in the upper left abdomen. It may be accompanied by digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is recommended to adjust eating habits, avoid overeating, and gently massage the abdomen to relieve symptoms.

  3. Muscle Strain

  Strenuous exercise or incorrect posture may injure the muscles or soft tissues in the upper left abdomen, potentially causing dull pain. Muscle strain may be accompanied by local swelling, tenderness, and limited movement. It is recommended to rest immediately, avoid strenuous activity, and apply cold or heat compresses to reduce local inflammation and muscle tension.

  4. Gastritis

  Gastric mucosa may be affected by bacterial infection, drug irritation, or autoimmune reactions. In gastritis, damaged gastric mucosa and abnormal gastric acid secretion can stimulate nerve endings, causing pain. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite may also occur. It is recommended to follow a doctor's instructions to use medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Clarithromycin Tablets, and Omeprazole Enteric-coated Capsules for treatment.

  5. Pancreatitis

  Acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas may be triggered by biliary diseases, excessive alcohol consumption, and other factors. In pancreatitis, digestive enzymes within the pancreas are abnormally activated and begin to digest pancreatic tissue itself, triggering an inflammatory response that compresses surrounding nerves and causes pain. Symptoms such as fever, jaundice, and diarrhea may also occur. It is recommended to use medications such as Atropine Injection, Morphine Injection, and Ceftriaxone Sodium Injection under medical guidance for treatment.

  It is recommended to keep the upper left abdomen warm in daily life, dressing appropriately according to weather changes. Applying a hot water bottle to the abdomen may help relieve dull pain, but ensure the temperature is appropriate to avoid burns.