Left Abdominal Pain Near the Navel: Causes and Concerns

Sharp pain on the left side of the abdomen near the navel?

I have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and had a colonoscopy last year which revealed hemorrhoids.
Currently, I am experiencing stomach pain and chest tightness.
Occasionally, when I take medication, it feels like it gets stuck in my throat, but I don't have that sensation while eating.
Sometimes I have diarrhea, occasional bloating, and I can feel my intestines moving.
I am currently taking Trancolon, Nexium, and Dobecon.
Recently, I have experienced sharp pain on the left side of my abdomen near the navel about twice.
The first time it felt prickly and itchy, while the second time it was just a sharp pain, although not in the same spot.
I only feel it when I am moving; when I am still, I don't feel anything.
I would like to know what this could be.
Could it be a side effect of the medication? Or could it be due to wearing a tight belt or tight pants? Sometimes I do wear tighter clothing.
Thank you.

yiwen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/11/22

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, you currently have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with left-sided abdominal pain near the navel, possibly due to muscle or pleural pain.
Please pay attention to any changes in your skin.
Your medication has been adjusted, and it is advisable to avoid wearing tight belts or girdles.
If you experience frequent pain, please visit the outpatient clinic for a physical examination.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2010/11/22

More Info

Left abdominal pain, particularly near the navel, can be a complex issue with various potential causes. Given your history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hemorrhoids, and current symptoms of stomach pain, chest discomfort, and occasional gastrointestinal disturbances, it is essential to consider several factors that could contribute to your discomfort.

Firstly, the pain you describe as "stabbing" or "itchy" in nature, occurring primarily during movement, may suggest a musculoskeletal origin. Tight clothing, such as belts or fitted pants, can indeed cause discomfort by compressing the abdominal area, leading to pain that may mimic gastrointestinal issues. If the pain subsides when you are at rest, this could further support the idea that it is related to muscle strain or irritation rather than an internal organ issue.

Additionally, the medications you are currently taking—Trancolon (often used for gastrointestinal motility issues), Nexium (a proton pump inhibitor for GERD), and Dobecon (which may contain ingredients for digestive support)—can have side effects. While these medications are generally well-tolerated, they can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, or discomfort. If you notice a correlation between taking these medications and the onset of your pain, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

Your symptoms of occasional diarrhea and bloating could indicate a functional gastrointestinal disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is characterized by abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. IBS can be exacerbated by stress, dietary choices, and certain medications. Keeping a food diary to track what you eat and any subsequent symptoms may help identify potential triggers.

Moreover, the pain's location near the navel could also be related to conditions affecting the intestines, such as diverticulitis or even referred pain from other areas, such as the kidneys or the reproductive organs, especially if there are underlying issues like your previous hemorrhoids. However, since you have undergone a colonoscopy and other imaging studies without significant findings, serious underlying conditions are less likely.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and their persistence, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, such as abdominal ultrasound or CT scans, to rule out any anatomical issues that may not have been detected in previous examinations. Additionally, a referral to a gastroenterologist or a specialist in functional gastrointestinal disorders may provide further insights into managing your symptoms effectively.

In summary, while your left abdominal pain near the navel could stem from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, medication side effects, or functional gastrointestinal disorders, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. It is crucial to communicate all your symptoms and concerns with your doctor to ensure a comprehensive approach to your health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help

Hello, for the past few days, I've been experiencing a slight pain in the abdominal area next to my left side of the navel. It doesn't feel like typical stomach pain or sharp pain; it resembles more of a dull ache similar to back pain. I visited a gastroenterologist yes...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine
Based on your description, the most likely diagnosis is an abdominal muscle strain, possibly caused by recent exercises similar to sit-ups. Typically, allowing the abdominal muscles to rest will lead to improvement. As for any potential intestinal issues, ultrasound may not revea...

Left Abdominal Pain Near Belly Button: Symptoms and Possible Causes

Hello doctor, today I noticed that pressing on the left side of my abdomen near the navel occasionally causes pain; sometimes it hurts, and sometimes it doesn't. Over the past few weeks, my stools have been mostly yellow, and occasionally I see black specks that resemble veg...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
It's just symptoms caused by peristalsis, so there's no need to worry.

Understanding Left Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns

Hello, doctor. Around the evening of October 28, I noticed pain in the area below my left rib cage, approximately two fingers' width, slightly towards the middle. This area is located diagonally below the left rib and diagonally above the navel. When I press on this area, it...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If there are issues with the internal organs, discomfort should be felt without the need for pressure. Localized tenderness, rebound tenderness after applying pressure, or the presence of a palpable mass are indicators of concern. If these symptoms are not present, there i...

Understanding Left Abdominal Pain and Digestive Issues: What You Need to Know

I have been experiencing a dull pain to the left of my navel for 4.5 months, and sometimes there is blood or a white fluid in my stool. I alternate between diarrhea and constipation. Two weeks ago, I went to the hospital for a fecal occult blood test, and the doctor said there wa...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please pay attention to your diet and bowel habits. Try to keep your meals light and avoid spicy and fried foods. Establish a routine of daily bowel movements and ensure you are adequately hydrated with sufficient fruits and vegetables. Additionally, try not to be overly s...