Left Lower Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Attention - Internal Medicine

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Left lower abdominal pain?


Recently, I have been experiencing occasional abdominal pain, located approximately in the lower left quadrant near the navel and above the left reproductive area.
The pain has persisted for some time and is not very severe, but it is noticeable.
My bowel movement frequency is about once a day.
Should I see a doctor at the hospital?

Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/10

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine


Hello, I'm not sure if your pain worsens with running or walking.
If it does, it could be due to an abdominal muscle strain, which usually improves with rest.
However, if the pain persists despite resting, you should consider various factors, including hernia, constipation, acute gastroenteritis, and so on.
If the pain continues or intensifies, I recommend consulting a gastroenterologist.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2022/04/10

More Info


Left lower abdominal pain can be a common yet concerning symptom that may arise from various underlying conditions. Given your description of the pain being persistent but not severe, and your regular bowel movements, it’s essential to consider several factors before deciding whether to seek medical attention.


Possible Causes of Left Lower Abdominal Pain
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or even constipation can lead to discomfort in the lower abdomen. Diverticulitis, which is the inflammation of small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon, often presents with pain in the lower left abdomen, changes in bowel habits, and sometimes fever.

2. Gynecological Concerns: In females, left lower abdominal pain can be associated with ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, or endometriosis. If you are of reproductive age and experiencing any menstrual irregularities or additional symptoms like unusual discharge, it would be prudent to consult a gynecologist.

3. Urinary Tract Issues: Conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or kidney stones can also manifest as pain in the lower abdomen. If you experience symptoms like burning during urination, increased frequency, or blood in the urine, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation.

4. Musculoskeletal Pain: Sometimes, pain in the lower abdomen can be referred from the back or pelvis due to muscle strain or injury. If you have a history of trauma or injury, this could be a contributing factor.


When to Seek Medical Attention
While your pain is not severe, there are specific signs and symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention:
- Severe Pain: If the pain escalates suddenly or becomes unbearable.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), or any unusual vaginal bleeding.

- Changes in Urination: If you notice changes in urination patterns, such as increased frequency, urgency, or pain.

- Duration: If the pain persists for more than a few days without improvement.


Recommendations
Given your situation, it may be beneficial to monitor your symptoms closely. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you develop any of the concerning symptoms mentioned above, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. A visit to a primary care physician or a gastroenterologist could provide a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies or laboratory tests to determine the cause of your discomfort.

In the meantime, consider keeping a symptom diary to track when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any associated symptoms. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.


Conclusion
In summary, while left lower abdominal pain can stem from various benign causes, it’s crucial to remain vigilant for any alarming symptoms. If your discomfort continues or you notice any concerning changes, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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