What’s Causing Pain in My Lower Left Abdomen?

Pain in the lower left abdomen can result from a variety of causes, ranging from digestive issues to more serious conditions. Here’s an overview of possible causes:

1. Digestive System Issues

• Diverticulitis: One of the most common causes of lower left abdominal pain, particularly in older adults. This is inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) in the intestine.
• Gas and Bloating: Trapped gas can cause sharp, cramp-like pains in the abdomen. Foods, swallowing air, and certain medical conditions can contribute to excess gas.
• Constipation: Backed-up stool in the colon can cause discomfort and pain in the lower left abdomen.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This functional disorder can cause abdominal pain, cramping, and changes in bowel habits.

2. Urinary Tract Issues

• Kidney Stones: Small stones that form in the kidneys can cause severe pain when they move through the urinary tract, often felt in the lower abdomen or back.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI that involves the bladder (cystitis) can cause pain, especially if it’s left untreated and spreads.
• Kidney Infection: A more serious progression of a UTI, this causes pain in the lower abdomen or back, often with fever and chills.

3. Reproductive System (Gynecological) Causes

• Ovarian Cyst: A fluid-filled sac on the ovary, which can cause sharp or dull pain if it’s large or ruptures.
• Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often causing chronic pain in the lower abdomen.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: A rare but serious condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, causing severe pain and potential complications.
• Menstrual Cramps: Some individuals experience cramps that can be focused on one side, especially during menstruation.

4. Musculoskeletal Causes

• Muscle Strain: Physical activity, heavy lifting, or sudden movements can cause muscle strain, which may result in pain on one side of the abdomen.
• Hernia: Occurs when an organ pushes through the abdominal muscle wall, causing localized pain. Hernias often appear as a lump or bulge.

5. Other Potential Causes

• Colon Cancer: A less common but possible cause of abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or blood in the stool.
• Shingles: If pain is accompanied by a rash or burning sensation, it may be shingles, which affects nerve pathways.
• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): A rare but serious condition in which the large blood vessel that supplies blood to the abdomen enlarges and may rupture.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience severe or persistent pain, fever, blood in your stool or urine, vomiting, swelling, or signs of shock (such as rapid pulse or sweating), consult a healthcare provider immediately.