Chronic Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Dietary Solutions

Q: Chronic Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Dietary Solutions

Hello： In addition to considering issues related to the colon, left lower abdominal pain should also take into account gynecological problems, urinary tract issues, or the possibility of a hernia. <br>It seems that you have already made good adjustments to your diet and lifestyle

Persistent abdominal pain in the lower left quadrant?

I have been experiencing sudden pain in my lower left abdomen, about three fingerbreadths below the navel, for the past two months.
The pain is not sharp but is quite severe, making it difficult to stand (lying down does not help much either).
I have a history of constipation and have been taking probiotics (though they haven't been very effective), and I rarely use laxatives or enemas.

During the first episode, I suspected it was due to several days of constipation.
After using an enema to relieve myself, the abdominal pain slightly improved.
I then made an effort to increase my dietary fiber intake, but a week later, the same symptoms reappeared, even though I had already had two bowel movements that week (approximately every three days).
I had to use an enema again to see if I could clear my bowels.
After using it, I was still in significant pain, but there was nothing left to expel.
Since then, I have consistently increased my vegetable intake and dietary fiber, drinking more than 2000 cc of water daily, and I try to maintain bowel movements every three days (which is quite challenging).
However, I still experience sudden, severe pain almost every week.
Sometimes, even when I haven't had a bowel movement, the pain subsides after about an hour.
My stools have been dark for a long time, previously very foul-smelling and sticky, but recently they have lost the odor, although the color remains dark.
I maintain a regular lifestyle, do not smoke or drink alcohol, eat a fair amount of vegetables, enjoy meat (with a vegetable-to-meat ratio of about 2:1, and I eat less rice), and I also exercise.
I drink between 2000 to 3000 cc of water daily.

Could you help me determine what might be causing these issues or suggest how I can improve my diet or lifestyle? Thank you.

Xiao Cai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/22

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: In addition to considering issues related to the colon, left lower abdominal pain should also take into account gynecological problems, urinary tract issues, or the possibility of a hernia.
It seems that you have already made good adjustments to your diet and lifestyle.
Additionally, consider the possibility of irritable bowel syndrome caused by emotional stress.
It is recommended to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by specialists in gastroenterology, gynecology, and urology.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2022/12/22

More Info

Chronic left lower abdominal pain can be a complex issue, especially when it is accompanied by symptoms like constipation and changes in bowel habits. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing significant discomfort for the past two months, with pain that can be quite severe and debilitating. You have also mentioned a history of constipation, which may be contributing to your symptoms.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Given your history of constipation and abdominal pain, IBS could be a potential diagnosis. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Stress, diet, and lifestyle can exacerbate symptoms.

2. Diverticulitis: Since you mentioned having diverticulosis in the past, diverticulitis could be a concern. This condition occurs when diverticula (small pouches that can form in the colon) become inflamed or infected, leading to pain, especially in the lower abdomen.

3. Muscle Strain: Sometimes, abdominal pain can be due to muscle strain, especially if you have been engaging in physical activities that involve bending or lifting.

4. Gastrointestinal Obstruction: Although less common, a blockage in the intestines can lead to severe pain and changes in bowel habits. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting or inability to pass gas.

5. Dietary Factors: Your diet plays a crucial role in gastrointestinal health. While you are consuming a good amount of vegetables and fiber, the type of fiber and the balance of your diet can significantly impact your symptoms.

Dietary Recommendations
1. Increase Soluble Fiber: While you are already consuming fiber, focusing on soluble fiber can help. Foods like oats, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas, and some fruits (like apples and citrus) can help regulate bowel movements and may alleviate some of your pain.

2. Stay Hydrated: You mentioned drinking 2000-3000cc of water daily, which is excellent. Adequate hydration is essential for fiber to work effectively in the digestive system.

3. Probiotics: Since you are already taking probiotics, consider trying different strains or brands, as some may be more effective for your specific symptoms. Probiotics can help balance gut bacteria and improve digestion.

4. Limit Red Meat and Processed Foods: While you enjoy a meat-heavy diet, reducing red meat and processed foods can help improve digestive health. These foods can be harder to digest and may contribute to constipation.

5. Monitor Food Triggers: Keep a food diary to identify any potential food triggers that may be exacerbating your symptoms. Common culprits include dairy, gluten, and certain high-FODMAP foods.

6. Regular Meal Times: Try to eat at regular intervals to help regulate your digestive system. Skipping meals or irregular eating patterns can lead to gastrointestinal distress.

Lifestyle Modifications
1. Regular Exercise: Continue with your exercise routine, as physical activity can help stimulate bowel function and reduce stress, which may alleviate symptoms.

2. Stress Management: Stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal health. Consider incorporating stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises into your daily routine.

3. Consult a Specialist: If your symptoms persist despite dietary and lifestyle changes, it may be beneficial to consult a gastroenterologist. They can perform further evaluations, such as imaging studies or endoscopy, to rule out any underlying conditions.

Conclusion
Chronic left lower abdominal pain can stem from various causes, and while dietary changes can help, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any alarming symptoms such as severe pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits, seek medical attention promptly. By making informed dietary choices and lifestyle modifications, you may find relief from your symptoms and improve your overall digestive health.

Similar Q&A

Chronic Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Seeking Effective Treatment Solutions

If a person has experienced chronic diarrhea or unformed stools, along with periodic left lower abdominal pain occurring approximately every three months, lasting about 1 to 3 weeks, and the pain is unrelieved by anti-inflammatory injections, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory med...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Hello: In response to your question, generally speaking, there are three common categories of left lower abdominal pain. The most common issue is abdominal pain caused by constipation, followed by gynecological problems, and then other colorectal diseases. Based on the patient&#x...

Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Causes of Left Lower Abdominal Pain

Hello doctor, I often experience diarrhea and have been feeling a vague discomfort in my lower left abdomen for the past few months. There was one occasion when I was lying in bed and felt a dull pain. When I pressed on the right side and the upper area, the pain was still in the...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, a 22-year-old female is experiencing frequent diarrhea, left lower abdominal pain, and negative fecal occult blood tests. Considering her age, the most common causes are likely to be enteritis and irritable bowel syndrome. It is important to pay attention to dietary habits...

Understanding Severe Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Remedies

Today, on April 5th, shortly after finishing dinner, I started experiencing severe pain in my lower left abdomen. I took some gastrointestinal medication, but it didn't improve the pain. Afterward, I took some pain relievers, which helped a bit. On March 20th in the afternoo...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: A 17-year-old female presents with left lower abdominal pain after meals, possibly due to indigestion. It is advised to eat slowly and to monitor bowel movements for regularity. Other potential causes include gastroenteritis, urinary tract infection, and abdominal issues s...

Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor: I don't know why I've been experiencing sharp pain frequently on the left side, about a palm's width below my navel. Sometimes I also feel pain in the upper left abdomen or the lower right abdomen. The pain lasts only a few minutes. After seeing a doc...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Lower abdominal pain can be caused by gastrointestinal diseases, urinary tract issues, and neuromuscular disorders. If the pain is intermittent, it may indicate gastrointestinal problems, which could be functional (such as irritable bowel syndrome) or organic in nature. It...