Stomach pain on the left side – what could be causing it?

Where in your stomach does it hurt?

By locating the pain and observing any other symptoms that may occur at the same time, you can get a better picture of why you have stomach pain.

Pain in the upper left part – under the ribs

Pain in the stomach under the left rib can be due to:

• Gas problems – this is a common and harmless condition that can cause a feeling of pressure and discomfort.
• The spleen – if you have an enlarged or damaged spleen (for example after an infection or in case of blood diseases), this can cause pain in this area.
• Gastritis or stomach ulcer – in case of inflammation of the stomach, pain can occur just below the rib cage.
• Pancreatitis – a inflammation of the pancreas can radiate to the left side and also be associated with nausea.

Pain in the lower left part of stomach

Pain further down the left side can be due to:

• Diverticulitis – this is an inflammation of the intestinal pouches that is common in older people. This often causes pain in the left lower abdomen and sometimes fever.
• Constipation – can lead to pressure and tenderness, especially on the left side where the colon bends.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – the condition causes recurring pain and swelling, often on the left side, along with changes in bowel habits.
• Gynecological causes in women – such as ovulation, endometriosis or cysts on the left ovary. Read more about common causes of pain in the left side of the abdomen in women here.
• Kidney stone or urinary tract infection – if the pain is deeper and radiates to the back or groin, it may be due to one of these conditions.

Then it's time to seek medical attention

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention:

• Sudden and severe pain
• Fever and at the same time an affected general condition
• Blood in your stool or urine
• Pain that does not go away or that recurs regularly