Lower Left Abdominal Pain and Blood in Stool: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

27.09.202112.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are the common causes of lower left abdominal pain and blood in stool. How to diagnose and treat conditions like diverticulitis and diverticulosis. What are the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease. How to manage lactose intolerance and indigestion.

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Understanding Lower Left Abdominal Pain: Common Causes and Symptoms

Lower left abdominal pain can be a symptom of various conditions, ranging from mild digestive issues to more serious medical problems. Understanding the potential causes and associated symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Diverticulitis: A Common Culprit of Lower Left Abdominal Pain

Diverticulitis is a condition that frequently causes pain in the lower left abdomen. It occurs when small pouches called diverticula, which form in weak areas of the intestinal wall, become infected and inflamed. These pouches are most commonly found in the sigmoid colon, the lower section of the large intestine.

Can diverticulitis cause sudden and severe pain? Yes, diverticulitis can cause sudden and severe pain in the lower left side of the abdomen. However, the pain may also start mildly and worsen over several days. Other symptoms of diverticulitis include:

Constipation or diarrhea
Fever and chills
Nausea or vomiting
Blood in stools (in some cases)

It’s important to note that diverticulitis can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Therefore, individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Celiac Disease: When Gluten Becomes the Enemy

Celiac disease is a chronic condition affecting the digestive tract, triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat and various foods and healthcare products. In individuals with celiac disease, gluten ingestion prompts an immune response that attacks the intestine, leading to a range of digestive issues.

How does celiac disease affect the body? When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the small intestine. This can lead to long-term complications if left untreated. Symptoms of celiac disease may include:

Abdominal pain and pressure
Bloating and gas
Fatigue
Weight loss
Diarrhea

In children, undiagnosed celiac disease can result in malnourishment and growth impediments. The primary treatment for celiac disease is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. If you suspect you may have celiac disease, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and guidance.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is an umbrella term encompassing two chronic conditions: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both conditions can cause painful inflammation anywhere in the digestive tract, leading to various symptoms including lower left abdominal pain.

What distinguishes Crohn’s disease from ulcerative colitis? While both are forms of IBD, Crohn’s disease most commonly affects the small intestine, whereas ulcerative colitis occurs in the large intestine. The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, but it’s associated with a weakened immune system, and genetic factors may play a role.

Common Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Abdominal pain
Persistent diarrhea
Blood in the stool
Fatigue
Unexplained weight loss

Managing IBD typically involves a combination of medications, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgical intervention. Regular follow-ups with a gastroenterologist are essential for monitoring the condition and adjusting treatment as needed.

Lactose Intolerance: When Dairy Becomes Problematic

Lactose intolerance is a common digestive issue characterized by the inability to properly digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. This condition occurs due to insufficient production of lactase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose into simpler sugars (glucose and galactose) that the body can absorb.

How does lactose intolerance affect digestion? When a lactose-intolerant individual consumes dairy products, the undigested lactose passes into the colon. Here, bacteria break it down, producing gas and fluid. This increase in gas and fluid in the colon can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms:

Abdominal pain
Loose stools or diarrhea
Bloating
Excessive gas
Nausea

Managing lactose intolerance typically involves dietary modifications, such as limiting or avoiding dairy products, or using lactase enzyme supplements when consuming dairy. Many individuals find relief by opting for lactose-free alternatives or plant-based milk products.

Indigestion: More Than Just an Upset Stomach

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a general term for discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen. While it primarily affects the upper part of the abdomen, it can sometimes cause discomfort in the lower abdominal region as well.

What are the common symptoms of indigestion? Indigestion can manifest in various ways, including:

A burning sensation in the stomach or upper abdomen
Mild pain or discomfort in the abdomen
Heartburn
Bloating and excessive gas
Feeling uncomfortably full after eating

In most cases, indigestion is mild and can be managed with over-the-counter medications and lifestyle changes. However, persistent or severe indigestion accompanied by other symptoms may indicate a more serious condition and warrants medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Abdominal Pain

While occasional mild abdominal discomfort is common and often resolves on its own, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to recognize these red flags to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment of potentially serious conditions.

When should you see a doctor for abdominal pain? Seek medical attention if you experience:

Severe or persistent abdominal pain
Blood in your stool or vomit
Black, tarry stools
Unexplained weight loss
Fever accompanying abdominal pain
Persistent changes in bowel habits
Abdominal pain that interferes with daily activities

Remember, early detection and treatment of underlying conditions can prevent complications and improve outcomes. Don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if you’re concerned about your symptoms.

Diagnostic Approaches for Lower Left Abdominal Pain

Diagnosing the cause of lower left abdominal pain often involves a comprehensive approach, combining patient history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. Understanding these diagnostic methods can help patients prepare for their medical consultations.

Physical Examination and Medical History

The diagnostic process typically begins with a thorough physical examination and a detailed review of the patient’s medical history. The healthcare provider may ask about the nature of the pain, its duration, any accompanying symptoms, and factors that worsen or alleviate the discomfort.

Laboratory Tests

What blood tests are commonly used to diagnose abdominal pain? Several blood tests may be ordered to help identify the underlying cause of abdominal pain:

Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for signs of infection or inflammation
C-reactive protein (CRP): An indicator of inflammation in the body
Liver function tests: To assess liver health and function
Pancreatic enzymes: To check for pancreatic inflammation
Celiac disease antibodies: To screen for celiac disease

Additionally, stool samples may be analyzed to check for blood, parasites, or other abnormalities.

Imaging Studies

Various imaging techniques can provide detailed views of the abdominal organs and structures, helping to identify abnormalities or sources of pain. Common imaging studies include:

Abdominal X-rays: To visualize the general structure of abdominal organs
Ultrasound: To examine soft tissues and detect fluid accumulation
CT scan: To provide detailed cross-sectional images of the abdomen
MRI: To obtain high-resolution images without radiation exposure

Endoscopic Procedures

In some cases, endoscopic procedures may be necessary to directly visualize the digestive tract. These procedures include:

Colonoscopy: To examine the large intestine and rectum
Sigmoidoscopy: To inspect the lower part of the colon
Upper endoscopy: To examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine

These procedures not only allow for visual inspection but also enable the collection of tissue samples (biopsies) if needed for further analysis.

Treatment Options for Lower Left Abdominal Pain

The treatment for lower left abdominal pain depends on its underlying cause. A tailored approach is essential for effective management and symptom relief. Here are some common treatment strategies for various conditions associated with lower left abdominal pain:

Diverticulitis Treatment

How is diverticulitis typically treated? The treatment for diverticulitis may include:

Antibiotics to treat the infection
A liquid or low-fiber diet during acute episodes
Pain relievers
Rest and monitoring

In severe cases or when complications arise, hospitalization may be necessary. Some patients might require surgery if conservative treatments fail or if they experience recurrent episodes.

Managing Celiac Disease

The primary treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. This involves eliminating all sources of gluten from one’s diet, including wheat, barley, and rye. Nutritional counseling is often recommended to ensure a balanced diet while avoiding gluten.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment

Treatment for IBD aims to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. It may include:

Anti-inflammatory drugs
Immunosuppressants
Biologics
Dietary modifications
Stress management techniques

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged portions of the intestine or to treat complications.

Addressing Lactose Intolerance

Managing lactose intolerance typically involves dietary changes, such as:

Limiting or avoiding dairy products
Using lactase enzyme supplements when consuming dairy
Opting for lactose-free or low-lactose alternatives
Incorporating non-dairy sources of calcium and vitamin D

Treating Indigestion

What are effective ways to manage indigestion? Treatment options for indigestion may include:

Over-the-counter antacids or acid reducers
Dietary modifications (e.g., avoiding trigger foods)
Eating smaller, more frequent meals
Stress reduction techniques
Prescription medications in more severe cases

It’s important to address any underlying conditions contributing to indigestion for long-term relief.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Modifications

While not all causes of lower left abdominal pain can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating various digestive issues. Implementing these changes can contribute to overall digestive health and well-being.

Dietary Considerations

How can diet impact digestive health? A balanced diet plays a crucial role in maintaining digestive health. Consider the following dietary recommendations:

Increase fiber intake gradually to promote regular bowel movements
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
Limit consumption of processed foods and added sugars
Incorporate probiotic-rich foods to support gut health
Identify and avoid personal food triggers that cause discomfort

Regular Exercise

Physical activity can help promote regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of constipation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling can be beneficial for digestive health.

Stress Management

Chronic stress can negatively impact digestive function. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can help alleviate digestive symptoms. Consider incorporating the following practices:

Meditation or mindfulness exercises
Deep breathing techniques
Yoga or tai chi
Regular relaxation activities
Adequate sleep and rest

Smoking Cessation

Smoking can irritate the digestive system and increase the risk of various gastrointestinal disorders. Quitting smoking can significantly improve overall health, including digestive function.

Alcohol Moderation

Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to various digestive issues. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and be aware of how it affects your digestive system.

Regular Health Check-ups

Routine medical check-ups can help detect potential digestive issues early. Discuss any persistent or concerning symptoms with your healthcare provider to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

By incorporating these preventive measures and lifestyle modifications, individuals can take proactive steps towards maintaining digestive health and potentially reducing the occurrence of lower left abdominal pain and related symptoms. However, it’s important to remember that these recommendations should complement, not replace, professional medical advice and treatment when necessary.

Pain in lower left abdomen: 14 possible causes

There are several possible causes of lower left abdomen pain. Some causes are more common and benign, while others can be serious and require medical attention.

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis can cause lower left abdominal pain. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula, which are small pouches in the intestinal wall, become infected and inflamed.

Diverticula form in weak areas of the large intestine, usually in the lower section — the sigmoid colon. They do not always cause symptoms or any problems. Many adults have diverticula, and it is more common in older adults.

In some cases, diverticula may cause some pain or cramping in the lower abdomen. If diverticula become inflamed, it can develop into diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis can cause pain in the lower left side of the abdomen, which may feel sudden and severe, but can also start off mild and get worse over several days. Other symptoms include:

constipation or diarrhea
fever and chills
nausea or vomiting
occasionally, blood in stools

Diverticulitis can cause serious complications without treatment, so people should consult a doctor if they have any of the above symptoms.

Celiac disease

Celiac disease is a chronic condition that occurs in the digestive tract when a person cannot digest gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat and is present in several foods and healthcare products.

When a person has celiac disease, eating gluten triggers their immune system to attack portions of the intestine, causing a range of digestive problems. Without treatment, celiac disease can cause long-term damage to the small intestine.

Symptoms of celiac disease may include:

pain in the abdomen
pressure and gas
bloating
fatigue
weight loss
diarrhea

Children with undiagnosed celiac disease may also experience malnourishment and growth impediments as a result of the condition. People with celiac disease should avoid gluten to prevent symptoms.

A person should speak with a doctor if they think they may have celiac disease.

Gas

It is natural to have gas in the digestive tract and occasional symptoms of gas. Swallowing air more frequently or eating certain foods may increase gas symptoms, such as:

burping or belching
passing gas
bloating or swelling in the abdomen

Typically, gas is not anything to worry about and will pass out of the body through either the mouth or anus. Causes of gas include:

digesting foods that are prone to releasing gas
swallowing air
smoking
chewing gum
overeating
undigested foods
certain bacteria in the stomach
health conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

People should speak with a doctor if symptoms of gas are bothering them, they have a sudden change in symptoms, or they have additional symptoms, including abdominal pain and:

constipation
diarrhea
constipation
unexplained weight loss

Lactose intolerance

A person who is lactose intolerant has trouble digesting milk and milk-based products, such as cheese and yogurt. This is because they lack sufficient amounts of an enzyme called lactase. Lactase breaks down the lactose in milk, which consists of the simple sugars glucose and galactose.

People with lactose intolerance are unable to digest all the lactose from food and drink. Unabsorbed lactose passes into the colon, where bacteria break it down to create gas and fluid. This increase in fluid and gas can cause symptoms such as:

pain in the abdomen
loose stool or diarrhea
bloating
gas
nausea

Inflammatory bowel disease

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic conditions that can cause painful inflammation anywhere in the digestive tract. The umbrella term for both conditions is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Crohn’s disease is most common in the small intestine, and ulcerative colitis occurs in the large intestine.

There is no clear cause of IBD, but it occurs due to a weakened immune system. Genetics may also play a role. Symptoms of IBD include:

pain in the abdomen
persistent diarrhea
blood in the stool
fatigue
weight loss

Indigestion

Indigestion is a group of symptoms that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Indigestion can cause abdominal pain, but this usually occurs in the upper part of the abdomen.

In most cases, indigestion is mild and does not cause complications. Symptoms of indigestion include:

a burning sensation
slight pain or discomfort in the abdomen
heartburn
bloating
gas
uncomfortable fullness after eating a meal

People may wish to try over-the-counter (OTC) indigestion relief medications.

If people have other symptoms alongside indigestion, it may indicate a more serious condition. People will need to see a doctor if indigestion lasts longer than 2 weeks, or if they also experience:

black, tarry stools
blood in vomit or persistent vomiting
unexplained weight loss
severe or constant pain in the abdomen
difficulty swallowing
pain in the chest, jaw, neck, or arm
shortness of breath
sweating
jaundice

Shingles

The same virus that causes chickenpox causes shingles. Once a person has had chickenpox, the virus stays dormant in the body for the rest of their life. Sometimes, the virus can reactivate, causing pain and a rash that may wrap around one side of the abdomen.

Symptoms of shingles include:

pain
itching
tenderness on the skin
rash
fluid-filled blisters

A person may feel tenderness and itchiness on one area of the skin before the rash appears. They may also experience a fever, chills, headache, or upset stomach. Shingles pain may vary from mild to severe.

Doctors usually prescribeantiviral medications for shingles, such as valacyclovir and acyclovir. Additionally, oatmeal baths or cool cloths for the skin may help ease discomfort.

Vaccines are available to help reduce the risk of a person developing shingles later in life.

IBS

IBS is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder. Symptoms of IBS may include:

abdominal pain
changes in bowel movements
constipation or diarrhea
gas
bloating

Changes to the nerves and muscles relating to the gut cause IBS. Stress and anxiety may worsen IBS, so relaxation and regular exercise can help. People may also manage IBS with dietary changes, increasing dissolvable fiber intake, and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms.

Hernia

A hernia occurs when an organ or other body part pushes through the abdominal wall. A bulge may appear in the midsection or near the groin.

Different types of hernias can occur, and they vary according to the underlying cause. If people have symptoms of a hernia, they will need to see a doctor to find out what type of hernia it is and what treatment they may require.

Symptoms of a hernia can include:

a bulge in the abdomen or groin
pain or aching in the hernia area
pressure at the site of the hernia
increasing discomfort when straining the abdomen

Inguinal hernia

An inguinal hernia usually occurs in the groin area. They are more common in males but can affect females too.

Inguinal hernias can cause complications without treatment, so it is important to see a doctor for a diagnosis as soon as possible. People will usually need surgery to repair an inguinal hernia.

Constipation

Constipation occurs when a person cannot pass a stool, passes hard stools, or passes stools fewer than 3 times a week.

It may occur due to a lack of exercise, fiber, or fluids. Certain medications or IBS can also cause constipation. A person may treat constipation by improving their diet, doing regular exercise, and increasing fluid intake.

Symptoms of constipation include:

abdominal pain
straining or pain when passing stool
dry, hard stools
having fewer than three bowel movements in a week
bloating or discomfort
feeling sluggish

Kidney stones

Most kidney stones occur due to calcium buildup and can form in either the right or left kidney.

A person may develop a kidney stone and not realize they have it until the stone causes problems, such as blocking part of the kidney or causing severe pain as it passes.

Typical symptoms of kidney stones include:

abdominal pain or ache
pain when urinating
nausea or vomiting
blood in the urine
fever and chills
severe lower back pain on one side

Intestinal obstruction

When a blockage occurs in the intestine, food cannot pass through the digestive tract as normal. This results in an obstruction that needs immediate medical attention. Hernias and medical conditions affecting the intestines can lead to intestinal obstruction.

People with conditions such as IBD or colon cancer or who have had abdominal surgery may be more at risk of intestinal obstruction.

A person will need to contact a doctor straight away if they have these symptoms of intestinal obstruction:

severe abdominal pain
inability to pass stool
swollen abdomen
vomiting
loud noises from the stomach

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy can occur if a fertilized egg grows outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. As the pregnancy progresses, this can cause the fallopian tube to burst, which can be life threatening.

Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy include:

mild pain or cramping in the abdomen or pelvis
lower back pain
abnormal vaginal bleeding

These symptoms can develop into severe abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder pain, and dizziness. Ectopic pregnancy is an emergency, and people will require immediate medical attention.

Learn more about female anatomy here.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common condition that can affect females. Endometriosis occurs when tissue, which is similar to the lining of the uterus, grows outside the uterus. Endometriosis may occur due to menstrual cycle problems, genetic factors, or problems with the immune system.

The main symptom of endometriosis is pain, which can include:

painful menstrual cramps
abdominal pain
pain in the lower back and pelvis
pain during or after sex
during periods, painful bowel movements, or pain when urinating

People may also have bleeding between periods, stomach issues, and difficulty with fertility. Hormone treatments, and in severe cases surgery, can help manage endometriosis symptoms.

To diagnose persistent or severe abdominal pain, a doctor can use a variety of techniques to explore the possible causes and identify a course of treatment. These include:

computerized tomography (CT) scans
ultrasound imaging
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
physical examination
endoscopy, in which a doctor inserts a tube with an attached light and camera down the throat and into the stomach, producing an image of the lower abdomen

Identifying certain abdominal problems may require repeat visits and close follow-ups.

Once a primary care physician makes a diagnosis, they may refer the individual to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, who will be able to provide more focused care.

The type of treatment will depend on the condition causing the pain. A person should speak with a doctor to determine suitable treatment for their condition.

Lower abdominal pain due to an infection, such as diverticulitis, will often require medications and resting as treatment.

Other, more structural, problems, such as a hernia or an intestinal blockage, may require surgery.

Treatment for constipation and gas often includes basic dietary adjustments and, in severe cases, laxatives. For more chronic lower abdominal pain, such as the pain in IBS or IBD, more careful, long-term dietary management can help to manage symptoms.

Treatment for food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, often involves excluding that food from the diet.

People should speak with a doctor about any abdominal pain that is persistent or severe or if they have concerns about any symptoms. People will also need to see a doctor if they have:

blood in stools
persistent diarrhea, constipation, or change in bowel movements
unexplained weight loss

A doctor will need to examine chronic or persistent pain to find out the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan.

In many cases, a person is not likely to experience any lasting effects from abdominal pain.

If the abdominal pain is due to a chronic condition, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease, a doctor can help a person develop a treatment plan to improve their symptoms in the long term.

People may experience lower left abdominal pain for a range of reasons. Some causes can be temporary, but in some cases, the pain may be a sign of a chronic condition. People should speak with a doctor about any persistent or severe symptoms.

Treatments will depend on the underlying cause but may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.

Pain in lower left abdomen: 14 possible causes

There are several possible causes of lower left abdomen pain. Some causes are more common and benign, while others can be serious and require medical attention.