Abdominal pain is a common issue that can range from mild discomfort to severe agony. Understanding the location and type of pain can provide valuable insights into its cause. Let’s explore the possible reasons behind pain on the left and right sides of your abdomen.
Left Side Abdominal Pain
Pain in the lower left abdomen can be caused by:
Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon, leading to sharp pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A chronic condition that affects the large intestine, causing cramping, bloating, and alternating constipation or diarrhea.
Constipation or gas buildup: Common but usually harmless causes that can still produce sharp or dull aches.
Upper left abdominal pain may stem from:
Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, causing severe upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back.
Gastritis or stomach ulcers: Inflammation or sores in the stomach lining, leading to burning pain, especially after eating or on an empty stomach.
Enlarged spleen: Causing a sense of fullness or dull pain in the upper left abdomen, sometimes linked to infections, liver disease, or blood cancers.
Left kidney problems: Kidney stones or infections can cause intense pain that radiates from the flank to the front of the abdomen.
Cardiac causes: Heart-related issues like angina or pericarditis can cause pain in the upper left quadrant.
Lung conditions: Pneumonia, especially in the left lower lung, can irritate the diaphragm and mimic abdominal pain ¹ ².
Right Side Abdominal Pain
Pain in the lower right abdomen can be caused by:
Appendicitis: A surgical emergency that requires immediate medical attention, characterized by pain that begins around the navel and shifts to the lower right abdomen.
Ovarian issues: Ovarian cysts, torsion, or ectopic pregnancy can cause lower right abdominal pain and require urgent evaluation.
Hernias or intestinal blockages: Can also occur in this region.
Upper right abdominal pain may be related to:
Liver conditions: Hepatitis, liver abscesses, or tumors can cause dull or sharp pain, often with fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal swelling.
Gallbladder problems: Gallstones or cholecystitis can cause sudden, intense pain that often radiates to the back or right shoulder.
Right kidney issues: Infections or stones can cause flank-to-front pain.
Duodenal ulcer: An ulcer in the upper part of the small intestine may cause pain relieved by eating, or pain that wakes you during the night.
If you experience severe, sudden, or persistent pain, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Don’t ignore your body’s signals – understanding the cause of your abdominal pain can help you take the necessary steps to alleviate it ³.
