Abdominal pain on the Left Side
Educational information about abdominal pain on the left side, including conditions reported in association with abdominal pain and the tests providers may use to investigate. Content is informational only - not a diagnosis.
Abdominal pain on the Left Side
An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perceived to originate in the abdomen.
The meaning of abdominal pain on the left side depends on your overall health, medical history, and any other symptoms you may have.
Conditions associated with abdominal pain
These conditions have been reported in association with abdominal pain in medical literature. Informational, not a diagnosis.
Aortic Aneurysm
Abnormal bulging of the aorta wall that can rupture, a life-threatening emergency....
Chronic Pancreatitis
Long-term inflammation of the pancreas that damages the organ over time, causing recurring abdominal pain and ...
Colon Cancer
Cancer of the colon or rectum, often developing from polyps, which can cause changes in bowel habits and blood...
Colorectal Cancer
Cancer of the colon or rectum. Screening can detect it early when treatment is most effective....
Constipation
Infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often caused by diet, dehydration, medications, or underlying conditi...
Diarrhea
Loose, watery stools occurring more than three times a day, which can be acute or chronic....
Food Poisoning
Illness caused by consuming contaminated food or water, causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cram...
Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by viruses (A, B, C), alcohol, medications, or autoimmune disea...
Hepatitis B
A viral liver infection that can be acute or chronic, transmitted through blood and bodily fluids....
Hepatitis C
A viral infection of the liver that can become chronic and cause liver damage over years. Often silent in earl...
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
A common functional disorder of the large intestine causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarr...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, including Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis, causing abdominal...
Tests providers may use to investigate abdominal pain
Healthcare providers may order these tests when evaluating abdominal pain.
Alpha-Fetoprotein Afp Tumor Marker Test
This blood test determines Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP or a-Fetoprotein) levels....
Alt Blood Test Sgpt For Liver
This blood test measures levels of Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), an enzyme in the blood, to help determine l...
Ammonia Test
This blood test is used to measure levels of ammonia to assess liver function. Symptoms of excess ammonia incl...
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Cancer & Tumor Marker Tests
Fast, easy and affordable cancer lab tests that do not require insurance or a doctor's referral. Simply order ...
Celiac Disease Panel
Screens for markers of celiac disease including tTG-IgA....
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when abdominal pain is on the left side?
Abdominal pain on the left side can have a range of causes. An unpleasant sensation characterized by physical discomfort (such as pricking, throbbing, or aching) and perceived to originate in the abdomen. Discuss persistent symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider.
When should I see a doctor about abdominal pain on the left side?
See a qualified healthcare provider if abdominal pain on the left side is persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily life, or if it occurs with other concerning symptoms.