Intermittent Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions

Q: Intermittent Left Upper Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions

Hello： The location of the left upper abdomen corresponds to the area where the stomach and colon bend near the spleen. <br>The sounds you describe, known as borborygmi, may be due to gas buildup combined with increased peristalsis, which can be normal but may also indicate bloat

Intermittent sharp pain in the upper left abdomen?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain in my upper left abdomen for about a week, occurring roughly ten times a day, but it is bearable.
Additionally, for the past five to six years, this area has made noises when I am hungry, and I can feel that when it happens, I need to quickly drink water or eat something to avoid disturbing others.
I also feel that my hunger is related to the upper left abdomen.
Sometimes, when I inhale, this area makes a gurgling sound.
Occasionally, before my menstrual period, I feel a sense of pressure or a foreign body sensation in the upper left abdomen, and I have a strong urge to stretch, but it doesn't help.
Could this be related to my intestines or stomach? Do I need to undergo an endoscopy or ultrasound? I also have a tendency to be anxious and have moderate scoliosis; could this be related?

Zhenni, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/06

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: The location of the left upper abdomen corresponds to the area where the stomach and colon bend near the spleen.
The sounds you describe, known as borborygmi, may be due to gas buildup combined with increased peristalsis, which can be normal but may also indicate bloating.
As for the intermittent sharp pain in the left upper abdomen over the past ten days, this could represent a new issue, with potential causes including gastritis, peptic ulcer, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), constipation, or colonic distension, among others.
If you have any concerns, it may be advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for further evaluation and appropriate testing.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2015/09/06

More Info

Intermittent left upper abdominal pain can be a perplexing symptom, especially when it has persisted over several years. Based on your description, it seems that the pain is not severe but occurs frequently, which can be concerning. The fact that you experience this pain in conjunction with feelings of hunger and the sounds from your abdomen suggests that it may be related to gastrointestinal issues.

The left upper quadrant of the abdomen houses several important organs, including the stomach, spleen, and parts of the pancreas and colon. Given your symptoms, there are several potential causes to consider:
1. Gastric Issues: Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or functional dyspepsia could lead to discomfort in the left upper abdomen. Gastritis, for instance, is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can cause pain, especially when the stomach is empty.

2. Splenic Problems: Although less common, issues related to the spleen, such as splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen) or splenic infarction, could also manifest as pain in the left upper quadrant.

3. Pancreatic Concerns: The pancreas is located in the upper abdomen and can cause pain if there are issues such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer, although the latter is less likely given your age and symptom description.

4. Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders: Given that you mention sounds from your abdomen and a sensation of needing to eat or drink to alleviate discomfort, it may be indicative of a motility disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

5. Musculoskeletal Factors: Your mention of scoliosis could potentially contribute to discomfort in the abdominal area due to altered posture or muscle strain. Chronic tension in the abdominal muscles or diaphragm can also lead to referred pain.

6. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, leading to increased awareness of bodily sensations and discomfort. Your mention of being easily tense may suggest that stress could be playing a role in your symptoms.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to pursue further diagnostic evaluations. An abdominal ultrasound can help visualize the organs in the left upper quadrant and rule out structural abnormalities. Additionally, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (gastroscopy) may be warranted to directly assess the stomach and duodenum for any signs of inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities.

In terms of management, addressing lifestyle factors such as diet, stress management, and regular physical activity can be beneficial. If anxiety is a significant factor, cognitive behavioral therapy or other forms of psychological support may help alleviate symptoms.
Lastly, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can help tailor a diagnostic and treatment plan based on your specific symptoms and medical history. If your symptoms worsen or new symptoms arise, do not hesitate to seek medical attention promptly.

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