Left or Right Side Stomach Pain? Common Causes and Effective Treatments

Stomach Pain? Should you be worried? 

It sounds like a common issue, but did you know it can sometimes be severe? Stomach pain, even mild, can lead to severe conditions if not treated properly. If pain is minor, it can affect your daily activities, disrupt concentration, and cause discomfort. However, it is essential to determine the exact cause of stomach pain so that it can be effectively treated. 

In this article, we will examine the common and serious causes of left- and right-sided stomach pain, and offer home remedies for relief. With the right information, it becomes easier to address the pain and decide if medical attention is needed.

Symptoms of Left-side and Right-side Stomach Pain

Here are some common symptoms related to left-side and right-side stomach pain that you should notice-

Symptoms of Left-Side Stomach Pain

• Sharp, cramping, or dull pain on the left side of the abdomen
• Bloating and excessive gas
• Nausea and vomiting
• Burning sensation (acid reflux)
• Fever and chills (infection or inflammation)
• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)

Symptoms of Right-Side Stomach Pain

• Sharp or dull pain on the right side of the abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain that worsens after eating (specifically fatty foods)
• Fever and chills 
• Jaundice 
• Bloating and constipation
• Pain that moves toward the lower right side (as seen in appendicitis)

Causes of Left-Side Stomach Pain

Common Causes

1. Gas and Bloating- Excessive gas buildup in the digestive tract can cause discomfort on the left side of the stomach. Causes include:

• Eating gas-producing foods (beans, cabbage, dairy products)
• Swallowing air while eating
• Gut imbalances affecting digestion

2. Indigestion or Acid Reflux - Also known as dyspepsia, indigestion can cause a burning sensation in the upper left abdomen. Causes include:

• Overeating
• Consuming spicy or fatty foods
• Lying down immediately after eating

Serious Conditions

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas may lead to severe pain in the upper left abdomen, often radiating to the back. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, and rapid pulse.
• Kidney Stones: If they are present in the left kidney, Kidney stones may cause sharp pain on the left side of the stomach. Other symptoms include blood in the urine, nausea, and frequent urination.
• Diverticulitis: A serious condition that causes inflammation of small pouches in the colon, known as diverticula. It may cause lower left abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.

Causes of Right-Side Stomach Pain

Common Causes

• Gas and Constipation: Gas trapped in the intestines causes pain, bloating, and discomfort on the right side of the stomach. Constipation can also cause pressure and pain.
• Muscle Strain or Cramps: Overexertion, physical activity, or dehydration can cause muscle strain or cramps on the right side of the abdomen.

Serious Conditions

• Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix causes sharp pain in the lower right abdomen. Symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. This condition is serious and may require emergency surgery.
• Gallstones or Gallbladder Inflammation (Cholecystitis): Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation can cause pain in the upper right abdomen. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and pain that worsens after eating fatty foods.
• Liver-Related Issues: Liver problems such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease can cause discomfort in the right upper abdomen. Jaundice, fatigue, and dark urine may accompany the pain.

Home Remedies for Stomach Pain

If the stomach pain is mild and not caused by a serious condition, home remedies may help relieve discomfort:

1. Applying Heat - A warm compress or heating pad can help relax muscles and ease cramps. It also helps with menstrual pain, gas, and muscle strain.
2. Peppermint—Consume peppermint tea, as it helps to relax digestive muscles and relieve bloating.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar- It helps digestion by balancing stomach acid levels. Also, it helps with bloating, acid reflux, and mild indigestion.
4. Ginger- It reduces inflammation and soothes nausea. It helps in digestion and relieves cramps. 
5. Drink Water—Drinking more water prevents dehydration, a common cause of cramps. It also helps flush out toxins and promote digestion.
6. Eat Small, Frequent Meals- Avoid overeating and consume easily digestible foods.
7. Avoid Trigger Foods - Refrain from consuming spicy, fatty, and dairy-rich foods that may exacerbate symptoms.
8. Take Probiotics - Probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt and kefir, promote gut health.

Treatment for Left-Side and Right-Side Stomach Pain

You can try home remedies first to treat the stomach pain. However, there are remedies and medical treatments for both left- and right-sided stomach pain: 

Left-Side Stomach Pain Treatment

• For severe pain or discomfort, over-the-counter (OTC) antacids or probiotics may provide relief.
• For kidney stones, your doctor may recommend increasing fluid intake and relieving symptoms; in severe cases, medical procedures may be necessary.
• For IBS or infections, Doctor-prescribed medications like antibiotics or antispasmodics.

Right-Side Stomach Pain Treatment

• For appendicitis, immediate medical attention is required; surgery may be necessary.
• For Gallstones- Doctor-prescribed medications, dietary changes, or gallbladder removal if necessary.
• For liver infections, consult your doctor, and they may recommend antibiotics, antiviral drugs, or lifestyle changes.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you are experiencing the symptoms of abdominal pain and the symptoms are frequent even after treatment, then you should seek medical attention. Here is when you should ask for medical care- 

• Severe pain lasting more than a few hours
• Jaundice
• Fever, vomiting, or diarrhea 
• Blood in stool or vomit
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain

The Final Words

Understanding the potential causes of stomach pain is crucial for managing discomfort and initiating treatment promptly. If the pain persists, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and get the necessary diagnostic tests. 

FAQs

• How to get rid of a stomach ache in 5 minutes?

To treat stomach pain in 5 minutes, use a heating pad, hot water bottle, or hot towel over the abdomen 

and back. This helps relax the muscles and relieve abdominal cramps and pain. If you are experiencing sharp stomach pain, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. 

• What does a sharp pain in the lower left abdomen indicate?

Diverticulitis, kidney stones, or gas buildup could cause it. If the pain is severe, consult your doctor.

• Can dehydration cause stomach pain?

Yes, dehydration can lead to stomach cramps, muscle spasms, and constipation.

• Can stress cause stomach pain?

Yes, stress can trigger digestive issues such as acid reflux, bloating, and cramping.

• How can I tell if my stomach pain is caused by gas?

If you've ever experienced sharp abdominal pain accompanied by bloating, it may be due to intestinal gas.

• What foods help relieve stomach pain?

Bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, toast (also known as the BRAT diet), ginger tea, and probiotic-rich yogurt can help alleviate stomach discomfort.