Left Side Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Left flank pain?

Recently, I've been experiencing some pain in my left lower back.
Initially, it felt like it was located just below the left rib cage, but today it seems to have moved lower (around the waist to the left of the navel).
A while ago, I had diarrhea, and almost every morning lately, I've been feeling pain in my lower abdomen close to where menstrual cramps occur, but my period hasn't started (the area is slightly above the female triangular region).
Sometimes, my left arm feels sore, and occasionally my left leg also feels achy.
I sometimes experience chest tightness and discomfort near my stomach.
Urination is not painful, and my stool color is somewhat dark brown.

1.
Could this be a kidney issue or a urinary tract problem?
2.
Which specialist should I see if I need to consult a doctor?
3.
Is it necessary to see a doctor immediately? It’s inconvenient to see a doctor while I’m abroad.
4.
I usually have nasal allergies; could this be related to my allergies?

ANN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/27

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology

Hello, 1.
It doesn't sound like a kidney or urinary tract issue.
2.
I recommend seeing a gastroenterologist or a family medicine physician.
3.
If you continue to feel unwell, you should seek medical attention promptly.
4.
It's not significantly related to allergy medications; I suggest consulting with the physician who originally prescribed the medication.
Thank you for the brief response.

Reply Date: 2016/07/27

More Info

Understanding left side abdominal pain can be complex, as it may stem from various causes, including gastrointestinal, renal, musculoskeletal, or even gynecological issues. Given your symptoms, it’s essential to consider a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment.

1. Possible Causes of Left Side Abdominal Pain:
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, or even constipation can lead to pain in the left lower abdomen. Since you mentioned experiencing diarrhea recently, this could indicate a gastrointestinal disturbance.

- Renal Problems: Pain in the left side could also be related to kidney issues, such as a kidney stone or infection. Symptoms like changes in urination or flank pain can be indicative of renal problems.

- Musculoskeletal Pain: Given that you also experience pain in your left arm and leg, it’s possible that the discomfort could be related to muscle strain or nerve issues, especially if you have been engaging in activities that could lead to such strains.

- Gynecological Concerns: For females, left-sided abdominal pain can sometimes be linked to ovarian issues, such as cysts or other reproductive system conditions. Since you mentioned menstrual irregularities, this could be a factor to consider.

2. When to Seek Medical Help:
- If the pain is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fever, significant changes in bowel habits, or blood in urine or stool, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
- Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. The most appropriate specialists to see would be a gastroenterologist for gastrointestinal issues, a urologist for potential renal or urinary tract problems, or a gynecologist for reproductive health concerns.

3. Immediate Medical Attention:
- If you experience severe pain that is debilitating, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or significant changes in your urinary or bowel habits, you should seek immediate medical care.
- Since you mentioned that you are currently abroad and finding it inconvenient to see a doctor, it is still important to prioritize your health. If the pain becomes unbearable or if you notice alarming symptoms, consider visiting a local healthcare facility.

4. Allergies and Other Factors:
- You mentioned having nasal allergies; while allergies typically do not cause abdominal pain, they can lead to sinus pressure and headaches that may sometimes be misinterpreted as discomfort in the upper body. However, it’s unlikely that your allergies are directly causing your abdominal symptoms.

In conclusion, while there are many potential causes for your left side abdominal pain, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Keep a record of when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any accompanying symptoms. This information will be valuable for any healthcare provider you consult. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention, as early diagnosis can lead to more effective treatment.

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