Lower left abdominal pain can be a symptom of many diseases. Some of these diseases are serious in nature and require immediate medical attention. Others are less severe and often can be treated at home. Through the process of elimination, you can decide if your pain warrants a phone call to the doctor, or an ambulance ride to the hospital.
Gender
1. Lower left abdominal pain can be caused by pelvic inflammatory disease or ectopic pregnancy or both. If you have a fever as well as pain, make a doctor's appointment. However, if your menstrual period is late, or you are pregnant, go to the emergency room. You may have an ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening.
Age
2. If you are over 50, may have diverticulitis, a swelling of the pockets that line your intestines. If your symptoms include moderate to severe lower left abdominal pain, vomiting and bloating call your doctor to confirm your suspicions and receive treatment. If you experience any rectal bleeding, you could be experiencing a diverticulitis related obstruction of the colon. Go to the emergency room.
Blood
3. Bloody stool, diarrhea, weight loss, reduction in appetite combined with lower left abdominal pain could mean you have Crohn's disease. Crohn's disease is a severe inflammation of the lining of the intestines. It is treatable, but can cause life-threatening ulcers and fistulas if left untreated.
Constipation
4. If it has been a while since you have had a bowel movement, you might just be constipated. Try your favorite home remedy or over the counter laxative. If this doesn't help, or you are experiencing any other symptoms, call your doctor to discuss your condition.
Food
5. Lower left abdominal pain may be a symptom of food poisoning. This pain is usually severe, and accompanied by vomiting and fever. Go to the emergency room.
Misconceptions
6. Appendicitis, Gal stones, and mononucleosis are all related to right side abdominal pain.
