Lower abdominal pain is extremely common and can arise due to various factors. To distinguish between the varied causes, which could range from urinary to reproductive to digestive issues, could be a task, demanding a visit to the doctor for proper diagnosis. So, to help decode the nature of this pain, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke with Dr Amit Miglani, Director and Head of Gastroenterology at Asian Hospital, Faridabad. Dr. Miglani discussed several potential causes and shared key characteristics to help distinguish between them, offering insight into when professional medical evaluation might be necessary.
What Causes Pain In The Lower Left And Lower Right Abdomen?
“Pain in the lower left abdomen is frequently associated with diverticulosis and diverticulitis of the colon,” said Dr Miglani, explaining, “Diverticula, or pouches that form in the colon wall, most commonly occur on the lower left side. These pouches are ideal hiding places for germs and can readily get infected, resulting in inflammation and discomfort.” Other causes include:
- Kidney stones
- Kidney infection
- Ovarian cyst
- Hernia
- Ectopic pregnancy
Pain in the lower right abdomen is often caused by issues with the appendix, such as appendicitis. Other causes include:
- Crohn's disease
- Testicular torsion
- Ovarian cyst
- Hernia
- Endometriosis
When it comes to abdominal pain on either side of the lower abdomen, it could be hernias, gas, renal problems, reproductive system disorders, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and indigestion, according to Dr Miglani.
How To Tell If Lower Abdominal Pain Is Serious?
According to StatPearls Publishing, between 7% and 10% of emergency department visits are for abdominal pain. In most cases, acute abdominal pain requires urgent medical attention. The causes can range from acute appendicitis, cholecystitis, and pancreatitis to diverticulitis, signalling an infection, inflammation, vascular occlusion, or obstruction.
Also Read: Do You Have Abdomen Pain? Here's How To Know If It's Serious
Dr Miglani said that abdominal discomfort along with any of the following symptoms may signify a medical emergency:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Hard abdomen
- Bloody diarrhoea
- Fainting
- Inability to have a bowel movement
- When the pain is accompanied by fever
He added, “Acute abdominal discomfort begins within a few hours or days and may be accompanied by additional symptoms. It is quite common and rarely causes concern. It may be gas, for instance. However, if you experience significant pain that occurs abruptly, you are more likely to have a more serious condition that requires a trip to the emergency department, such as appendicitis.”
“Chronic pain lasts three months or more and might come and go. Chronic abdominal discomfort may be associated with other symptoms,” he shared further.
Common Signs That Distinguish Digestive, Urinary, Or Reproductive System-Related Abdominal Pain?
Differentiating abdominal pain involves recognising key signs related to the digestive, urinary, or reproductive systems.
Digestive pain often presents as cramping or sharp aches, accompanied by nausea or bloating, and may worsen after eating.
Urinary pain is typically lower abdominal, sharp, or burning, with symptoms like painful urination or cloudy urine.
Reproductive pain is usually cramp-like in the lower abdomen, possibly linked to menstrual cycles or intercourse, with irregularities in discharge or cycles.
Conclusion
Lower abdominal pain can be sudden and sharp. Sometimes, it can be chronic, accompanied by dull pain. Understanding the cause of the pain and discomfort is crucial to receiving prompt and proper treatment. While there are signs and symptoms that can help you get an idea of what you may be suffering from, it is best to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.