Sudden Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps

Q: Sudden Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps

Hello： Constipation can cause bloating in the intestines, and kidney stones that have dropped into the ureter may also present similar symptoms. <br>Whether a colonoscopy is necessary can be assessed by a gastroenterologist. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr.

Left lower abdominal pain?

Hello Doctor, for the past two weeks, I have been experiencing sudden pain in my lower left abdomen at least once a day, near the side of my waist.
The pain feels like a sudden stabbing sensation and lasts anywhere from 1-2 seconds to 5-6 seconds.
It occurs unexpectedly, and I often find myself pressing on the area.
It can happen whether I am standing, sitting, or lying down, and the timing is unpredictable—sometimes after eating, sometimes before eating, or even when I am about to sleep.
Today, I even experienced the pain twice right after getting out of bed.
Although the episodes are brief, they are sudden and cause significant stress as I never know when the pain will strike.
I visited a clinic for an abdominal ultrasound, and the doctor mentioned that there was only slight bloating and could not identify any specific cause for the sudden pain.
I was prescribed enteric-coated tablets.
Could you please advise me on what might be causing these sudden sharp pains? Should I consider undergoing a colonoscopy or an endoscopy? Thank you, Doctor.

Kelvin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/12

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Constipation can cause bloating in the intestines, and kidney stones that have dropped into the ureter may also present similar symptoms.
Whether a colonoscopy is necessary can be assessed by a gastroenterologist.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2020/12/12

More Info

Sudden left lower abdominal pain can be alarming and may arise from various underlying causes. Given your description of the pain as sharp and sudden, lasting only a few seconds, it is essential to consider several potential explanations.

Possible Causes of Sudden Left Lower Abdominal Pain
1. Muscle Strain or Spasm: The abdominal muscles can become strained or go into spasm due to physical activity, poor posture, or even stress. This can lead to sudden, sharp pain that may feel like a stabbing sensation.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, or even gas buildup can cause sudden abdominal pain. The fact that your ultrasound indicated some gas suggests that this could be a contributing factor.

3. Kidney Stones: Given your history of suspected kidney stones, it’s possible that a stone could be causing intermittent pain as it moves through the urinary tract. This pain can often radiate to the lower abdomen and back.

4. Reproductive System Issues: In females, conditions such as ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, or pelvic inflammatory disease can cause sudden abdominal pain. If you are female, it may be worth considering a gynecological evaluation.

5. Hernia: A hernia can cause sudden pain, especially if it becomes incarcerated or strangulated. This is a more serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

6. Nerve Irritation: Sometimes, nerve irritation in the lower back can manifest as abdominal pain. This could be related to a herniated disc or other spinal issues.

Next Steps
Given that you have already undergone an abdominal ultrasound with no significant findings aside from gas, it may be prudent to consider further evaluation, especially since the pain is recurrent and causing you distress. Here are some recommendations:
1. Consult a Gastroenterologist: Since your symptoms are gastrointestinal in nature, a gastroenterologist can provide a more in-depth evaluation. They may recommend further imaging studies or diagnostic procedures such as a colonoscopy or an upper endoscopy (EGD) to rule out any underlying gastrointestinal conditions.

2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting when the pain occurs, its duration, associated symptoms (like changes in bowel habits, nausea, or vomiting), and any triggers (such as specific foods or activities) can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.

3. Consider Stress Management: Since you mentioned that the pain causes significant stress, exploring stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or counseling may help alleviate some of the tension that could be contributing to muscle spasms or gastrointestinal symptoms.

4. Follow Up on Kidney Stones: If you have a history of kidney stones, it might be worthwhile to follow up with a urologist to monitor for any changes or complications related to this condition.

5. Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination by a healthcare provider can help identify any palpable masses, tenderness, or other signs that may indicate a specific condition.

Conclusion
While sudden left lower abdominal pain can stem from various causes, it is crucial to approach this symptom with a comprehensive evaluation. Given your ongoing symptoms and the impact they have on your daily life, seeking further medical advice is advisable. Early diagnosis and management can help alleviate your discomfort and address any underlying issues effectively. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about your health care.

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