Left Abdominal Pain for Days: Muscle Strain or Gastrointestinal Issue?

Pain in the left central abdomen for several days?

Hello, doctor.
About three days ago, after finishing dinner, I felt pain on the left side of my abdomen.
The pain has lasted for about three days, and during this time, I have not experienced vomiting or diarrhea.
It hurts more when I press on it.
Could this be a muscle strain or a gastrointestinal issue?

CC, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/10

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, the area in the center-left of your abdomen corresponds to the gastrointestinal region, and there may be gastrointestinal issues.
If the pain persists, please follow up at the outpatient clinic with Dr.
Lin Ming-Hui, a specialist in Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at the Ministry of Health and Welfare Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/12/10

More Info

Left abdominal pain can be a perplexing symptom, especially when it persists for several days without accompanying signs like vomiting or diarrhea. Based on your description, the pain is localized on the left side of your abdomen and worsens upon palpation. This raises the question of whether the pain is due to a muscle strain or a gastrointestinal issue.

Muscle strain is a common cause of localized abdominal pain, particularly if you've engaged in any physical activity that might have overexerted your abdominal muscles. Symptoms of a muscle strain typically include tenderness in the affected area, pain that increases with movement or certain positions, and possibly some swelling or bruising. If the pain is exacerbated by movement or specific activities, it leans more towards a muscular issue.

On the other hand, gastrointestinal issues can also present as left-sided abdominal pain. The left side of the abdomen houses several important organs, including parts of the colon, the left kidney, and in some cases, the spleen. Conditions such as diverticulitis, which is inflammation of the diverticula in the colon, can cause significant pain on the left side. Other gastrointestinal issues could include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or even gastritis, which can sometimes refer pain to the abdomen.

Given that you have not experienced any gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, it might initially suggest a less acute gastrointestinal issue. However, the absence of these symptoms does not rule out the possibility of a gastrointestinal problem entirely. For instance, conditions like diverticulitis can sometimes present without typical gastrointestinal symptoms, especially in the early stages.

If the pain persists or worsens, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to rule out any serious conditions. Additionally, they may perform a physical examination to assess for tenderness, rigidity, or any other signs that could indicate a more serious underlying issue.

In the meantime, consider monitoring your symptoms closely. Keeping a diary of your pain, including its intensity, duration, and any activities that exacerbate it, can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider. If you notice any new symptoms, such as fever, changes in bowel habits, or significant changes in your overall health, do not hesitate to seek medical care.

In summary, while muscle strain is a possibility, the left-sided abdominal pain could also be indicative of a gastrointestinal issue. Given the duration and nature of your symptoms, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management.

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