Pain in the left part of the stomach: possible causes and what to do

Health can be affected by a large number of variables that can from enhancing and favoring our well-being to generate discomfort that indicates the presence of some major or minor alteration severity.

An example of this is the appearance of pain or discomfort at the gastrointestinal level. Although it has mostly been due to some kind of temporary digestive problem, the truth is that sometimes it may be indicating something more serious.

Likewise, sometimes it is also possible that these discomforts or pains do not occur in a specific part and not at a general level, such as on one side. Why can pain appear on the left side of the stomach? We are going to see some variables that we have to take into account and some possible reasons for their appearance.

• Related article: "The 13 types of pain: classification and characteristics"

abdominal pain on one side

Stomach pain is a relatively common phenomenon and generally It is usually due to discomfort caused by poor digestion or the presence of gases

. This does not imply that this type of pain can sometimes indicate some type of injury, inflammation or disease of greater relevance and even dangerous, especially when it has little characteristics usual.

When the pain is localized, such as when we have pain on the left side of the stomach, this usually implies that the reason for the discomfort is found in one of the organs present in the same region or we are facing an irradiation of some problem different. In the event that this type of pain occurs, it may be advisable to take into account some variables.

Variables to take into account

In the first place, and focusing on pain, we must assess the type of pain we are feeling, whether it is rather sharp or burning (as if we were being burned). Likewise, another factor of great relevance is its exact location and its level of intensity.

It is also advisable to take into account how long it is present, if this remains continuously, comes and goes or occurs punctually in some situation. In this sense, the fact that it is present continuously or very frequently may indicate that there is some type of problem. If there is no improvement after two days, it is recommended to see a doctor.

When this pain appears is also relevant; It must be taken into account if it has occurred after a major contusion, when eating or after it or if it appears suddenly without any type of antecedent. For example, its sudden appearance is not usual and it is usually advisable to consult a doctor.

Finally, we must bear in mind that if we are In the face of some type of disease, it is common for the pain to be accompanied by other symptoms. (although sometimes they are not perceived by the person). Some symptoms that may appear along with pain on the left side of the stomach and that lead to the suspicion of a possible serious ailment is the presence very high fever, bleeding in vomit or stool, excessive diarrhea, rapid loss of weight and/or energy, paleness or jaundice, inability to defecate or fainting.

Possible causes of pain in the left side of the stomach

There are many possible causes of pain on the left side of the stomach, which can range from mild discomfort derived from poor digestion to more serious conditions that generate intense pain and recurring. Some examples are the following.

1. gas buildup

The presence of an accumulation of gases at the gastrointestinal level is one of the most common causes of stomach and abdominal pain, both at a general level and on a specific side (on the left it is common for the accumulation to occur either in the stomach or the colon). It is common for the pain to be punctual and bloating and frequent flatulence or belching appear, decreasing discomfort after expulsion.

• You may be interested in: "I have a lot of gases: 12 remedies to stop suffering from them"

2. Gastritis

A common cause of pain in the left side of the stomach is gastritis, in which the stomach suffers from inflammation that can cause shooting pain, bleeding, burning, vomiting and gas. It can be due to multiple causes, including some diseases. Some gastritis, especially the hemorrhagic type, can be fatal.

3. irritable bowel

Another of the possible causes for pain in the left part of the abdomen is the presence of irritable bowel or some alteration in the colon. Specifically, the pain will appear on the left side when the alteration affects the descending colon, and is usually of a stinging type and relieved after the evacuation of feces. Constipation, diarrhea, or both often also appear.

4. diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is an inflammation of the diverticula, small sac-like structures that line a large part of the digestive tract but are especially present in the colon.

The pain caused is usually intense, continuous and does not improve over time. It usually appears together with high fevers, dizziness, weight loss, and diarrhea or constipation.. It can generate different serious or even life-threatening complications, such as perforations and even peritonitis.

5. Splenomegaly and other spleen problems

Another of the organs found on the left side of the body and whose involvement can cause great pain on that side is the spleen. This organ acts as a reservoir and control system for the amount of blood, in addition to participating in the immune and lymphatic system, and can be injured or affected by various diseases.

One of them is splenomegaly, in which this organ increases its size to a great extent. This increase can generate compression against other organs and this will cause the birth of pain, heaviness, weight loss or fever. It may be necessary to remove it surgically.

In addition to splenomegaly, alterations such as cysts and tumors can appear that can also cause pain. Another possible cause may be that the spleen is injured, is perforated or broken by some trauma, generating internal bleeding of great danger to the life of the subject.

6. pancreatitis

Although most of the pancreas is located on the right side of the body, its tail juts into the left side of the abdomen. That is why if it becomes inflamed, pain can be perceived in the left part of the abdomen and at the level of the stomach. that arises or worsens right after eating, often later spreading to other areas of the body and appearing along with fever, vomiting, unexplained weight loss, and greasy stools.

Pancreatitis can have fatal repercussions, so it is essential to go to the hospital as soon as possible.

7. Kidney stones and other kidney problems

On the left side of the abdomen we can also find one of the kidneys, which can sometimes generate a type of pain perceived on the left side of the stomach or in its vicinity. This happens especially when there are kidney stones or urinary infections.

In addition to pain, it is common for difficulties or excesses in urination to appear.

8. stomach or inguinal hernia

Another possible cause of pain in the left side of the stomach is the presence of a hernia, or the protrusion of part of the stomach into another area. This is the case of hiatus hernia, in which a part of the stomach passes through the hole in the diaphragm into the chest.

In addition to this, another hernia whose associated pain can radiate to the stomach area is the presence of a hernia at the inguinal level.

9. Ovarian cysts and menstrual problems

In the case of women, it is also possible that pain appears on the left side due to the presence of some type of cyst (either a single one or in cases of polycystic ovaries) in the corresponding ovary. In these cases they usually appear in addition to pain as well menstrual disturbances, fatigue and dizziness.

In addition to these cysts, it is also relatively common for pain associated with menstrual cramps or other changes in the reproductive system to appear.