Published in : Gastroenterology | March 4, 2025 |
Medically Reviewed
Stomach pain can occur on either the left side or right side of the abdomen, with causes ranging from mild digestive issues to serious medical conditions. Left side abdominal pain may indicate problems like gas, constipation, or kidney stones, while pain on the right side of the stomach could signal appendicitis, gallbladder disease, or liver conditions. If you experience persistent or severe pain, seek medical attention.
Abdominal pain is a common symptom that can arise from various conditions affecting the digestive system, kidneys, liver, or other organs. The location of the pain often provides valuable clues about its cause. While occasional discomfort may be harmless, persistent or sharp pain can indicate underlying stomach problems that require medical evaluation.
Pain on the left side of the abdomen can be caused by issues in the stomach, intestines, kidneys, or reproductive organs.
Trapped gas can cause cramping or sharp pain in the left abdominal region, especially after eating certain foods. Bloating, belching, and discomfort that improves after passing gas are common signs.
A lack of fibre or dehydration can lead to hard stools, causing pain in the lower left abdomen. Symptoms include infrequent bowel movements and bloating.
Inflammation of small pouches in the colon (diverticula) can cause persistent pain in the lower left abdomen, along with fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits.
Small, hard deposits in the kidneys can cause sharp left side abdominal pain that radiates to the back and groin. Other symptoms include blood in the urine and frequent urination.
Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries can cause left lower abdominal pain, irregular periods, and bloating. Severe cases may require medical intervention.
An enlarged or ruptured spleen due to infections or injury can cause pain in the upper left abdomen, along with fatigue and easy bruising.
Pain on the right side of the stomach often indicates issues with the liver, gallbladder, appendix, or intestines.
Pain in the lower right abdomen is a hallmark symptom of appendicitis. The pain usually starts around the belly button and shifts to the right lower side, accompanied by nausea, fever, and loss of appetite.
Gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder can cause pain in the upper right abdomen, particularly after eating fatty meals. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and jaundice.
Conditions like hepatitis or fatty liver disease can cause dull pain on the right side of the stomach, along with fatigue, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), and nausea.
Similar to the left side, kidney infections or stones can cause right-side abdominal pain, back pain, fever, and painful urination.
Chronic digestive issues can lead to pain on either side of the stomach, bloating, and altered bowel movements.
Cysts on the right ovary can cause pain in the lower right abdomen, irregular menstrual cycles, and bloating.
If your stomach pain occurs after eating, it could be linked to digestion-related problems.
Acid backing up into the oesophagus can cause burning pain in the upper abdomen after meals.
Inflammation of the stomach lining, often due to infection or excessive alcohol consumption, can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and bloating.
Lactose or gluten intolerance can lead to bloating, diarrhoea, and stomach pain after eating certain foods.
Pain in the upper right abdomen after fatty meals may indicate gallstones or gallbladder inflammation.
Chronic abdominal pain refers to discomfort that lasts for weeks or months. It may be caused by conditions like:
If you experience chronic abdominal pain, seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
The treatment for abdominal pain depends on its cause.
Seek medical attention if you experience:
If you are looking for the best gastroenterologist in Bangalore or want to visit the best gastroenterology hospital in Bangalore, please visit SPARSH Hospital.
Abdominal pain can have many causes, depending on whether it occurs on the left or right side. While some cases are mild and resolve on their own, persistent or severe pain may indicate a serious health issue. If you experience chronic abdominal pain, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
It may be due to gas, constipation, kidney stones, or diverticulitis. In women, ovarian cysts can also cause pain in the lower left abdomen.
It can result from appendicitis, gallbladder disease, or liver issues. Kidney stones or infections may also lead to pain in the upper right abdomen.
Common reasons include acid reflux, gastritis, food intolerances, or gallbladder issues. Keeping a food diary can help identify trigger foods.
Seek medical attention if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by vomiting, fever, or jaundice.
Categories: Gastroenterology
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