10 Causes of Left-Sided Abdominal Pain and How to Relieve It
Left-sided abdominal pain generally occurs when organs on the left side of your body experience problems. There are various conditions that can cause it. Let's find out more below!
Causes of Left-Sided Abdominal Pain
There are many things that can be the root cause of the pain you feel on the left side of your abdomen, including:
1. Diarrhea

The painful sensation you experience can develop because you are having digestive problems such as diarrhea. This condition generally occurs due to a viral or bacterial infection in the food or drinks you consume.
Along with abdominal pain, you will also experience watery bowel movements. This will occur three to four times in 24 hours after you consume contaminated food.[1]
2. Stomach Acid

The human stomach organ is located on the upper left side, so if you experience upper left-sided abdominal pain near the ribs, the discomfort may be triggered by stomach acid. In this condition, you will also feel nausea and pain in the upper abdomen.
There are many factors that can cause it, ranging from eating foods that are prohibited for people with stomach acid issues to stress that weighs on the mind.[2]
3. Kidney Problems

If the pain comes with symptoms of foamy urine and swelling in the legs, the likely cause is kidney problems. Indicators such as smoking habits and obesity can contribute to this condition.
4. Bloating

Bloating can also make you feel discomfort in the left abdomen. Some habits such as swallowing too much air while eating and drinking, as well as smoking, can make your stomach bloated.
To address this condition, an effective solution is to consume Sido Muncul Tolak Angin Cair. Its ginger, cardamom, and clove leaf content will stimulate your body to release gas that accumulates in the digestive system, so your stomach will no longer feel full and bloated.
5. Approaching Menstruation

Left-sided abdominal pain in women can occur because you are experiencing PMS, which often occurs one to two weeks before your period.[3] Besides abdominal pain, you will also experience headaches, mood swings, and fatigue.
6. Ovarian Cysts

Lower left-sided abdominal and back pain in women can be a sign that you have ovarian cysts in your uterus. The pain is generally centered below the navel. In addition, you may feel a full or bloated stomach.
7. Inguinal Hernia

Left-sided abdominal pain in men can be a sign of Inguinal Hernia, which is when internal abdominal tissue protrudes out due to a weak abdominal muscle wall.
In this condition, you will see a bulge in the lower abdomen near the groin area, but the bulge will disappear when you lie down.[4]
8. Endometriosis

Left-sided abdominal pain that radiates to the legs with a stabbing or tingling sensation can occur due to Endometriosis. This condition arises from the growth of uterine lining outside the uterus.[5]
Genetic factors to the habit of consuming alcoholic beverages can cause this condition.
9. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

PID or pelvic inflammatory disease can also be the root cause of lower left-sided abdominal pain in women. This disorder occurs when bacteria invade the reproductive tract and then spread deeper into the reproductive tract.
This condition can arise from sexual intercourse with a partner infected with a sexually transmitted disease. Therefore, it is important to always use contraception as a preventive measure.
10. Pancreatitis

You can experience inflammation of this organ if the enzymes produced to digest actually attack the pancreas. Gallstones and the habit of consuming alcohol are two things that trigger this condition.
If the pain you feel is caused by this disorder, you will also feel nausea, fever, and skin that turns yellowish.
Ways to Reduce Pain in the Left Abdomen
Given that pain can arise from serious illness, consulting a doctor is the best way to get effective treatment. However, for first aid at home, here are some things you can do:
1. Warm the Abdomen with a Compress

Temperature therapy on the abdomen can relieve muscle tension, increase blood circulation so that the pain you feel can be reduced.
2. Sleep Curled Up Like a Baby

In a condition of pain due to PMS, sleeping curled up like a baby can help reduce pressure on the abdominal muscles so that the pain feels lighter.
3. Acupressure

Applying pressure to the ST25 point located on the side of the navel can help you relieve pain from diarrhea and constipation. You can apply pressure by massaging slightly for three minutes to feel the benefits.
Left-sided abdominal pain can be caused by various factors. See your doctor to ensure a proper diagnosis and the right treatment steps!
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