Left Side Stomach Pain, Here’s What You Need to Know!

When your left side stomach hurts, it’s not just digestion, it’s also about doubt, dread, and dozens of Google searches at 2 AM. 

Stomach pain can make you concerned about your health and may disrupt your concentration. Well! We are talking about dozens of Google searches. So are you searching ‘Why is my left side stomach paining?’ If yes, then you are at the right place. 

This blog will tell you the reasons for left side stomach pain, its symptoms, and many other terrible questions that may have immediately crossed your mind. It will also include home remedies and treatment options for this type of pain. So, let's begin the knowing process:

7 Reasons for Left Side Stomach Pain

Left side stomach pain is also known as abdominal pain or stomachache. While the pain is generally harmless, there are times when it can be extremely uncomfortable, particularly at night. It causes excruciating pain in the abdomen and can radiate to other areas of the body, including the back and shoulders. Abdominal discomfort or stomach pain on the left side can have a variety of causes. 

Here are 7 common causes of left-sided stomach pain.

1. Gas and Bloating: When air gets trapped in your digestive tract, it can stretch and irritate your intestines. Instant stretching may cause sharp pain, but it is often relieved after passing gas or having a bowel movement.

2. Constipation: If stool builds up in the large intestine (especially the descending colon on the left). Then it can cause heaviness, pressure, and aching pain in the left lower abdomen.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Stomach pain on the left side may be caused by a functional gastrointestinal condition. It may also cause alternating diarrhea and constipation, along with bloating and spasmodic pain. It can often be worsened by stress or certain foods.

4. Diverticulitis: Small pouches (diverticula) can form in the colon wall, especially on the left side. Inflamed or infected can cause constant pain, fever, and changes in your bowel habits.

5. Kidney Stones: If you have a stone in the left kidney or ureter, then it can cause intense, wave-like pain in the left abdomen. Sometimes it can show symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or blood in the urine.

6. Gastritis or Stomach Ulcers: Irritation or open sores in the stomach lining can cause a burning or gnawing pain on the upper left side. It can also often be worsened after meals or on an empty stomach.

7. Ovarian Cysts (in women): Fluid-filled sacs on the left ovary can cause dull or sharp pelvic pain, especially during ovulation or menstruation. It may radiate to the lower abdomen or back.

Symptoms of Left Side Stomach Pain

Left-side stomach pain can range from mild discomfort to severe cramps. It may be caused by issues in the digestive tract, kidneys, or reproductive organs. Identifying the exact cause can help get proper treatment. Here are common symptoms that may occur with left-sided stomach pain, 

• Sharp or dull pain
• Bloating 
• Changes in Bowel habits
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Loss of appetite
• Blood in stool or urine
• Menstrual irregularities
• Fatigue or weakness

Can gas cause left-sided stomach pain?

Many people have googled whether gas can cause stomach pain. So, yes, gas can cause left-sided stomach pain if it gets stuck in the intestine. It may also lead to feelings of fullness, cramping, or discomfort, mainly on the left side. However, if gas is the only reason, you can easily prevent it. Avoiding items that produce gas, eating slowly and chewing food, drinking plenty of water, and exercising frequently can all help you provide immediate relief.

Home Remedies for Left Side Stomach Pain

Home remedies can help cure a left-sided stomachache. They can provide instant relief, but it will take time for the pain to stop permanently.

1. Warm Compress or Heating Pad

Using a heating pad can provide instant relief from left-sided stomach pain. It may improve blood circulation, relax tense abdominal muscles, and reduce cramping, especially in women. This process involves placing a warm heating pad or hot water bottle on the painful area for 15-20 minutes. Then repeat the process as needed. It can be helpful for gas pain, muscle cramps, and mild menstrual discomfort.

2. Ginger Tea

This remedy has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years to relieve pain. Ginger contains compounds like gingerol that may reduce inflammation, promote digestion, and ease bloating and nausea. For this method, boil a few slices of fresh ginger in water for 5-7 minutes, strain, and drink warm. You can add honey if desired or for a better taste. It is best for gas, nausea, and indigestion-related stomach pain.

3. Peppermint Tea or Oil

Peppermint relaxes the smooth muscles of the digestive tract and may help trapped gas move out easily from the intestine. To use this remedy, brew peppermint leaves or a tea bag in hot water for 5 minutes and sip slowly. For oil, dilute with carrier oil and rub lightly on the abdomen. It can be helpful for people who have IBS-related cramps, bloating, and gas.

4. Fennel Seeds (Saunf)

Fennel seeds can help ease left-sided stomach pain. They contain anethole, which helps relax gut muscles and expel trapped gas. To consume them, chew 1 teaspoon of raw fennel seeds after meals or make fennel tea by boiling seeds in water. They can also be beneficial for post-meal bloating, gas, and slow digestion.

5. Warm Water with Lemon

Lemon water may help you improve digestion. It can increase stomach acid production and prevent fermentation that causes gas. You can squeeze half a lemon into warm water and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning. It is mostly used for digestive issues, mild constipation, and bloating.

Left Side Stomach Pain Treatment

Abdominal pain is typically treatable with medication, home treatments, or both. By doing this, you may receive enough relief. However, if kidney stones or ulcers are the primary problem, you may need medical help.

If your medicine isn't working, you should see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The doctor may also ask you for some tests, including an ultrasound, a CT scan, a Kidney stone analysis test, a Stool test, and a Blood test. You can also book your appointment online at Redcliffe Lab at an affordable price.

Final Thought

Left-sided stomach pain can occur due to many causes, such as improper sleeping habits, constipation, and inappropriate eating habits. It can be reduced with home remedies like warm compresses, ginger tea, peppermint tea, and light walking. Additionally, it can help relieve mild pain caused by gas or indigestion.

However, sometimes, it can be due to serious complications like kidney stones and ulcers. If the pain is severe, lasts more than a day, comes with a high fever, vomiting blood, or sudden weakness, you should seek medical help immediately. First, you should consult a test for proper diagnosis and treatment.

FAQs

1. Is left-sided stomach pain always severe?

No. It could often be due to mild issues like gas or indigestion. However, persistent or severe pain should be checked by a doctor.

2. What are the common symptoms of left-sided stomach pain?

Bloating, changes in bowel habits, nausea, vomiting, fever, or blood in stool are common symptoms of left-sided stomach pain.

3. How is left-sided stomach pain diagnosed?

Based on symptoms, doctors may perform physical exams, blood tests, urine tests, ultrasounds, CT scans, or endoscopies.

4. Can women get left-sided stomach pain due to reproductive issues?

Yes. Conditions like ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, or endometriosis can cause pain in the lower left abdomen in women.