Left Lower Abdominal Pain: When to Consider Further Testing

Left lower abdominal pain?

Hello Doctor, I started experiencing rectal bleeding at the end of November last year, which did not improve for one or two months, prompting me to seek medical attention.
During this period, I visited two hospitals, and after the internal examinations, the doctors informed me that the bleeding was due to anal fissures, as they observed the wounds.
My bowel movement frequency and shape have not changed.
After the consultations, I have been regularly applying medication.
Besides occasional swelling and pain in the anal area, I have been experiencing a dull ache in my lower left abdomen daily (it's not very painful, but feels unusual).
The doctors mentioned that this could be due to hard stools, and the discomfort doesn't last long, occurring about five to six times a day, along with a constant urge to pass gas.
I also feel that I have been urinating more frequently.
Additionally, I noticed bright red blood on the surface of my stool, which appears to be scattered and adherent to the stool, while the stool itself is golden (brown) in color.
Should I consider undergoing further endoscopic examination? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

Miss Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/07

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

At the age of 23, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is not zero, but generally speaking, it is extremely low.
Based on your description, it seems more likely that you are experiencing hemorrhoidal bleeding and gastrointestinal discomfort due to constipation.
I recommend that you first address the issue of bowel movements and monitor your symptoms.
If the symptoms persist without improvement, you may consider consulting a physician for medication or arranging for a colonoscopy.

Reply Date: 2018/02/07

More Info

Understanding left lower abdominal pain, especially in the context of gastrointestinal symptoms like rectal bleeding and changes in bowel habits, is crucial for determining the need for further testing. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing persistent left lower abdominal discomfort alongside rectal bleeding attributed to a fissure. While your doctors have suggested that the pain is related to hard stools and the fissure, the ongoing nature of your symptoms warrants a more thorough evaluation.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that rectal bleeding, even if attributed to a fissure, should always be taken seriously. The presence of bright red blood on the stool can indicate several conditions, ranging from benign issues like hemorrhoids and fissures to more serious conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diverticulitis, or even colorectal cancer, especially if you have risk factors or if the bleeding persists.

The fact that you are experiencing daily left lower abdominal pain, along with increased frequency of urination and a sensation of needing to pass gas frequently, suggests that there may be more going on than just a simple fissure. The left lower quadrant of the abdomen houses parts of the colon, and any inflammation or irritation in this area can lead to discomfort. Additionally, the change in bowel habits, such as the frequency and consistency of your stools, could indicate an underlying gastrointestinal issue that may need to be addressed.

Given these factors, it would be prudent to consider further diagnostic testing. A colonoscopy is a valuable tool in this situation. It allows for direct visualization of the colon and rectum, enabling the physician to identify any abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, or lesions that might explain your symptoms. Additionally, if there are any suspicious areas, biopsies can be taken during the procedure for histological examination.

Moreover, if you have not yet undergone imaging studies, such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan, these can also provide insight into any structural abnormalities in the abdominal cavity that might be contributing to your pain. Conditions like diverticulitis, which can cause localized pain and changes in bowel habits, can often be diagnosed through imaging.

In summary, while your symptoms may currently be attributed to a fissure and hard stools, the persistence of left lower abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and changes in bowel habits necessitates a more comprehensive evaluation. It is advisable to discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of undergoing a colonoscopy and any necessary imaging studies to rule out other potential causes. Early detection and intervention are key in managing gastrointestinal issues effectively, ensuring that any serious conditions are addressed promptly. Always advocate for your health and seek further opinions if you feel your concerns are not being fully addressed.

Similar Q&A

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

Three months ago, I started experiencing occasional mild pain in my lower left abdomen (about 2 inches below the navel and 2 inches to the left). On average, it occurs 1 to 2 times a day. I visited a general practitioner who only performed auscultation and said it wasn't a m...

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. If there is no diarrhea, it is likely not gastroenteritis. Taking the medications mentioned can help with digestion and alter gastrointestinal motility. If there is improvement after taking them, you may continue; if there is no significant effect, consider stopping. 2....

Unexplained Abdominal Pain: What Tests to Consider Next?

Hello, doctor. Since November 11, I have been experiencing abdominal pain when bending over, particularly with certain movements that put pressure on my abdomen. Specifically, I feel a sudden sharp pain on the left side of my abdomen (near the navel) that lasts about one second, ...

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Ms. Aasta, based on the symptoms you described, an abdominal ultrasound can be arranged. Additionally, if there is not much improvement with medication treatment, you should discuss further examinations with your attending physician, and possibly arrange for a CT scan. Than...

Understanding Discomfort in the Lower Left Abdomen: When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I started feeling a strange sensation in my lower left abdomen (just above the bladder). Although it hasn't reached the level of pain, it feels quite unusual. Approximately four weeks ago, I visited Chung Shan Hospital and had a urine test an...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, you only need to continue monitoring your condition. If there is no improvement, please discuss it with your physician. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian

Left Abdominal Pain: Should You Get a Colonoscopy?

Hello, I recently visited a clinic due to lower back pain. After an ultrasound, the doctor diagnosed me with kidney stones. Following urine tests and X-rays, no issues were found, and my back pain resolved in about two days. However, I then started experiencing intermittent dull ...

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Mr./Ms. Shan, based on the symptoms you provided, the pain near the navel (upper left, lower left) is associated with the intestines. It is also possible that referred pain from ureteral stones could occur in this area. If you wish to arrange for an examination, an abdomina...