Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Nausea: When to Seek Help

Left lower abdominal pain and nausea?

Hello, Doctor.
Recently, I've been experiencing occasional cramping pain in my lower left abdomen.
On March 28th, from 7 PM to midnight, I had severe cramping pain in my lower left abdomen, which was relieved only when standing or lying down.
The next day, the pain disappeared, but for the past few days, I've been feeling dizzy in the mornings and need to rest for a while to feel better.
My stomach also feels bloated; I experience nausea when I don't eat, and I still feel nauseous after eating.
I can only eat small amounts and have resorted to eating small, frequent meals.
On March 30th, I visited an ENT specialist and mentioned my symptoms.
The doctor suggested a blood test to check for anemia, and I will review the results on April 2nd, which came back normal.
The doctor also prescribed medication for bloating.
However, as of April 4th, I still experience nausea whether I eat or not, and I can only eat a little.
This symptom persists, and I occasionally feel sharp pain in my lower left abdomen.
I have researched online, and some sources suggest seeing a gynecologist while others recommend an internist.
Therefore, I would like to ask you, what do you think my symptoms indicate, and which specialist should I consult? Thank you, Doctor.

Kaili, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/04

Dr. Xu Peiqi reply Family Medicine

Hello, thank you for your question.
The most common cause of cramping pain in the lower left abdomen is intestinal colic due to constipation, so you should observe whether the pain is related to bowel movements.
Other possibilities include pelvic inflammatory disease or pain from ureteral stones.
Nausea and bloating can occur regardless of eating, with a higher likelihood of peptic ulcers or duodenal ulcers; however, gastritis or cholecystitis are also possible.
Since the left lower abdominal pain and your other symptoms do not point to a specific diagnosis, if the symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to visit a gastroenterology clinic or hospital.
Additionally, be cautious as these symptoms could also be signs of pregnancy.
Thank you for your question, and I wish you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2016/04/04

More Info

Understanding left lower abdominal pain and nausea can be quite complex, as these symptoms can arise from a variety of underlying conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing intermittent sharp pain in the left lower abdomen, accompanied by nausea and a feeling of fullness or discomfort after eating. This combination of symptoms can be indicative of several potential issues, and it is important to approach this systematically.

Firstly, the left lower abdominal pain could be related to gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, or even conditions like ovarian cysts or endometriosis in women. Given that you mentioned the pain is severe enough to cause you to seek relief through specific positions (standing or lying down), this suggests that the pain may be significant and warrants further investigation.

The nausea and changes in your appetite, where you feel full quickly or experience a sensation of reflux, could be linked to gastrointestinal disturbances. Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even functional dyspepsia could be contributing to these symptoms. Additionally, the fact that you are experiencing dizziness upon waking could indicate a possible issue with hydration, blood pressure, or even an inner ear problem, which may not be directly related to your abdominal symptoms.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation. Since you have already seen an ENT specialist, it may be beneficial to follow up with a gastroenterologist. This specialist can perform further diagnostic tests, such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or endoscopy, to rule out any serious gastrointestinal conditions.

In the meantime, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:
1. Dietary Modifications: Since you mentioned that eating triggers nausea, consider keeping a food diary to identify any specific foods that may exacerbate your symptoms. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce feelings of fullness and nausea.

2. Hydration: Ensure that you are staying well-hydrated, as dehydration can contribute to dizziness and exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or medications for nausea may provide temporary relief, but it is essential to discuss any medication use with your doctor.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and intensity of the abdominal pain, any changes in bowel habits, and how your nausea correlates with food intake. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

5. Follow-Up: Since you have an upcoming appointment to review your blood tests, ensure that you discuss all your symptoms in detail, including the abdominal pain, nausea, and dizziness. This will help your doctor determine the next best steps in your evaluation.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be indicative of a gastrointestinal issue, they could also be related to other conditions. It is crucial to seek a thorough evaluation from a gastroenterologist who can provide a tailored approach to your diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Since last Saturday, I have been experiencing a stabbing pain in my lower left abdomen. I visited a gynecologist and had an ultrasound, but the doctor said nothing abnormal was detected, so I was prescribed some gastrointestinal medication, which has not improved my condition. In...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, there are no significant organs in the lower left abdomen, so urinary tract issues should be prioritized for exclusion. Other concerns may relate to gastrointestinal dysfunction. Sincerely, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology, Taoyuan Gen...

Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Medical History: In late 2019, the patient was diagnosed with fulminant hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis, and has been on medication since then. Early the following year, the patient underwent surgery for stage 1A endometrial cancer. Currently, the patient is experiencin...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Left lower abdominal pain should be considered in relation to intestinal adhesions, urinary tract issues, or reproductive system problems—such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Additionally, diverticulitis or enteritis of the colon are also possible causes. It is advisable t...

Understanding Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

On January 31st, around 2 AM, I suddenly experienced abdominal pain and had to go to the bathroom about 4 to 5 times. The next day, on February 1st, I went to see a doctor. After taking the medication prescribed by the doctor, I stopped having diarrhea, but my stomach still hurts...

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: Your symptoms mainly include left lower abdominal pain and diarrhea. You may need to consider the following conditions: diverticulitis, urinary tract infection, gynecological disorders, gastroenteritis, etc. If the left lower abdominal pain persists without improvement or ...

Understanding Left-Sided Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing sudden pain on the left side of my body, specifically around the area near my navel at the four o'clock and five o'clock positions close to my leg, especially when I lie down at night. This pain has been ongoing for a week. What co...

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine
Hello, it is recommended to have an evaluation by a gastroenterologist. Please note that online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Changhua Hospital cares about you.