Pain on the left under the ribs. Pain under the rib on the left side

Why the left side hurts can be explained by the development of so many diseases and pathologies. Discomfort and pain are associated with diseases of those organs that are located in the region of the left hypochondrium. This is spleen , left side of diaphragm part of the stomach , pancreas ,bowel loops , pole of the left kidney . In violation of the functions of these organs, cramps, spasms and pains occur in this area.

Pain in the left side of the abdomen - what does it happen?

Initially, the boundaries of the hypochondrium area should be determined. This is the left side of the abdomen - the left quadrant at the top, which is located under the ribs. Accordingly, what exactly hurts in this part of the abdomen in a man, woman or child, and which doctor you need to contact, can be determined by the nature of the pain, the period and circumstances of its occurrence. If the pain manifests itself in the upper abdomen in the center and radiates to the left side, we can talk about the development of various diseases.

Stitching pain that manifests itself during exercise

Those who are interested in why it hurts when running, and whether it is dangerous, should take into account that a similar symptom is also observed in healthy people. If tingling only periodically develops during movement, that is, during active physical activity, then this phenomenon can be considered normal. Such symptoms quickly disappear and they only indicate that an adult or a child did not warm up enough before starting sports and moved very sharply.

Before starting classes, it is necessary to conduct a thorough warm-up so that the body gradually adapts to the activation of blood circulation. Stitching pain sometimes develops with too active walking, which can be prevented by slowing down.

This condition is not dangerous if colitis occurs only during exercise and this happens to healthy people who do not suffer from heart disease. However, even healthy people who strain too much, with the development of such sensations, you need to stop and relax, take a deep breath. When exhaling, you should press your palm on the place where the pain develops, and lean forward sharply. You can repeat these steps several times.

It is also important to make sure that when the lesson takes place, the breathing is deep, since with shallow breathing, small excursions of the diaphragm.

Severe sharp pain on the left can also be noted if a person started training after eating. It is important that at least an hour and a half elapses after eating before the start of classes, as the digestive system must cope with the digestion process.

Dagger sharp pain

Acute pain after an injury

If the occurrence of pain in this area is noted when inhaling after an injury, accident, fall, then there is a possibility that a person has seriously damaged internal organs. In this case, it is important to immediately contact a specialist, as there is a possibility of a life-threatening.

Dull aching pain in left side

Diffuse, aching pain, which manifests itself for a long time and occurs periodically, may be a sign of the development of a chronic disease of the digestive tract. Probably inflammation in the stomach - and also pancreatitis , and others. To determine what can hurt in the left side, or to exclude the development of pathologies, it is important to consult a gastroenterologist, conduct tests and studies. Also, pulling pain in the left hypochondrium develops with some blood pathologies , bacterial infections , sepsis , systemic diseases .

It's a dull pain

If it constantly aches in the hypochondrium, pulls, then the causes of heaviness under the ribs may be associated with the development duodenitis or sluggish. If at the same time the patient immediately experiences nausea and vomiting, then we can talk about the probability.

If the pain is not associated with problems in the functions of the gastrointestinal tract, it can be assumed that ischemic heart disease .

Causes of pain in the hypochondrium on the left

Thus, answering the question of what can hurt in the left hypochondrium, the following reasons should be mentioned:

  • , heart failure , heart attack ;
  • diseases of the gastrointestinal tract cholecystitis , ulcer , gastritis , pancreatitis , duodenitis , colitis ;
  • enlargement or rupture of the spleen;
  • internal organ tumors ;
  • splenic infarction due to arterial thrombosis ;
  • rheumatic manifestations;
  • diaphragm injury, diaphragmatic hernia ;
  • left-sided pleurisy , as well as left-sided pneumonia developing in the lower part of the left lung.

It is imperative to take into account what is in the hypochondrium region of a person, as well as the nature of the pain (radiating to the back, aching, stabbing, just heaviness or discomfort) as well as factors that could determine the development of such pain (after eating, when inhaling during physical exercises, etc.).

The hypochondrium in front of a woman can hurt with. In this condition, pain is also manifested in the left hypochondrium from behind from the back due to the strong pressure of the enlarged uterus on the internal organs. Sometimes expectant mothers complain that they periodically prick in their side.

Pain in the left hypochondrium in front can also be associated with past injuries - in this case, it can be felt as discomfort in front or dull pain in front, as well as severe, diffuse pain. In this case, the doctor should immediately determine the reasons.

Pain in the left side under the ribs, the mechanism of occurrence

Why it hurts on the left side under the ribs also depends on the mechanism of development of such pain. This indicator serves as an additional sign in the diagnostic process, when the doctor is trying to determine what hurts in the left side under the ribs, what is on the right and causes such sensations.

The following division of pain in this area is known:

The nature of the pain Features of manifestation
Reflected pain They appear as radiating from organs located far away. It could be pain left sided pneumonia , heart attack , pleurisy etc. Can give pain in the ribs on the left front, back in the back, on both sides.
Visceral pain

Develop with spasms of the intestine or in case of violation gastric motility .

Also, visceral pain is characteristic of the state of stretching of the muscle fibers of the digestive tract. A person may complain that his stomach hurts, if the disease progresses, pain can be felt in the center, as well as on the right side. The patient sometimes complains that there is gurgling in the abdomen, pulling on both sides.

Diaphragmatic hernia develops during pregnancy, in people with, with strong physical exertion. Also, such diseases often occur in people in old age against the background of a weakening of the muscular apparatus. In some cases, the stomach is pinched, then there is a sharp cutting pain in the stomach and in the left hypochondrium, sometimes the pain in the stomach radiates to the back.

Pain in intercostal neuralgia

Against the background of the development of neurological diseases, irritation or compression of the intercostal nerves may occur. When nerve cells are affected, in patients intercostal neuralgia pain sensations can have a very wide spectrum: cramping, pulsating, piercing, sometimes sharp or aching, dull or burning pains develop. A person complains that in the lumbar region, under the ribs, he presses, pulls, becomes numb, aching, bakes. Such sensations intensify when breathing - inhaling, when inhaling, exhaling, as well as when coughing, pressing on certain points on the back, chest, spine, with tension, changing the position of the body.

With attacks of neuralgia, it tingles under the chest, periodic muscle twitches, pallor or redness of the skin, and severe sweating are noted.

Patients with neuralgia are often interested in doctors what is on the left side of a person, since pain often radiates under the shoulder blade, is felt under the heart, in the abdomen from above, in the upper back under the shoulder blade, and also in other places when pressed. There is a feeling that it cuts, “interferes” and twitches in different places.

Pain sensations are manifested at any time of the day, and in those places where the nerve pathways were damaged, numbness is noted.

In the region of the heart, burning pain is not always associated with cardiac pathologies, because a person can be disturbed by organs from those under the heart. However, if aching pains appear on the left, under the left nipple, simultaneously with, nausea , frequent heartbeat , and this occurs both during exercise and at rest, the development of heart disease can be suspected. The patient may feel heaviness and burning under the sternum. Similar symptoms may appear when ischemic heart disease . If afflicted coronary arteries , there is a violation of the blood supply to the heart muscle, provoking the development of ischemia.

What hurts in the left side below the ribs is of interest to those who suffer cardiomyopathy . This is a number of diseases in which the function of the heart is impaired, but there is no arterial hypertension , valvular pathology , heart vascular disease . In patients with cardiomyopathy, the heart muscle is structurally altered. As a result, a person gets more tired, colic and a feeling of pain develop during physical exertion.

Pain on the left in diseases of the spleen

With the manifestation of pain on the left, one can suspect that the spleen is disturbing the person.

Where is this organ located and how does it hurt? The spleen is fragile, easily torn, so pain develops in any pathological condition of this organ. If the spleen is in pain, the symptoms of a slight enlargement of the spleen are difficult to detect, especially in people with overweight , since the human spleen is located deep in the hypochondrium on the left.

Splenomegaly (that is, an enlarged spleen) is noted with infectious mononucleosis and other diseases, the causes of which are infectious lesions. But with this disease, the patient also manifests a temperature, , muscle pain, intoxication, enlarged lymph nodes and liver.

In the body, the spleen performs various functions, being the largest lymph node, the thinnest blood filter and the largest conglomerate of reticuloendothelial tissue.

Spleen hypertrophy occurs if it performs its functions in enhanced mode due to infectious diseases ,hemolytic anemia , immune complex diseases . Its increase in size as a result of this is sometimes the answer to the question of why the spleen hurts in humans.

In addition, there are other reasons why the spleen hurts. The reasons for this may be a tumor, trauma, infiltration, developmental defects. The most acute pain sensations appear after an injury or blow that leads to a rupture of this organ. What to do if this happens should be determined by the doctor as soon as possible. When the spleen ruptures, there is also cyanosis of the skin near the navel, pain gives off in the back area. Once such symptoms have been noted, emergency care should be called immediately.

Pain on the left in diseases of the pancreas and stomach

It should be remembered: if the left side of the abdomen hurts, it can also be a symptom of ailments of the stomach and pancreas.

With gastritis

Manifestations occur in most people. The gastric mucosa is very sensitive to the action of irritants, which are contained in a very large amount in modern foods.

When gastritis develops in the hypochondrium, aching pain, belching, nausea, sometimes in the stomach growls, rages, pulsation is felt. Develops pain in the epigastrium, vomiting, a feeling of pressure, heaviness. The listed signs appear in a child and an adult most often after eating. With gastritis, the patient is also concerned about pallor, dry mouth, a feeling of weakness, diarrhea , gas, bloating.

With gastric ulcer

The symptoms of this disease are similar to those of gastritis. The symptoms depend on how severe the disease is. But with pain, as a rule, occurs after a meal has occurred.

With an ulcer, the patient is disturbed not only by severe colic, but also by vomiting, loss of appetite, belching, heartburn, rumbling and gurgling in the stomach.

At perforated ulcer colic in the lower abdomen and in the hypochondrium turn into a sudden dagger pain, which can cause a person to lose consciousness.

For diseases of the pancreas

What is in a person’s left side under the ribs worries people who are suffering. With this disease, strong girdle pain sensations appear on the left under the ribs at the top and a little lower. This condition is characterized by vomiting with bile, bitterness in the mouth, nausea. Sometimes the pain is so intense that the person has to sit bent over. The feces may become lighter and the urine darker.

If the disease becomes chronic, pain is mainly disturbed after the abuse of junk food and alcohol. It is very difficult to establish oncological processes in the pancreas, since at the beginning of the disease the symptoms are almost not noticeable.

For oncological diseases of the digestive system

In the early stages, oncological processes can proceed with mild symptoms. Therefore, various symptoms should be alarming, especially if they develop frequently or occur in older people. Periodic tingling - if it throbs and tingles in the lower abdomen or above, weakness, constant lack of appetite, anemia, rapid satiety, constant seething and occasional pain in the stomach, regular alternation of diarrhea and constipation - all this is cause for concern. It is also necessary to immediately consult a doctor if a seal, a bump has appeared in this area.

But if any of these symptoms appear constantly, only a doctor should draw conclusions about the disease and prescribe treatment.

Pain in the hypochondrium in women

Unlike men, in women, such sensations may be the result of physiological processes. Sometimes pricks in the left side during pregnancy, in the period before menstruation .

Why it is prickly in the left side of the lower abdomen during pregnancy is easy to explain by the physiology of the expectant mother. A number of organs, which is located in the left side of the lower abdomen, are subjected to pressure from the growing uterus. Therefore, during pregnancy, especially in the last stages, there are periodic pains, both in the upper and lower hypochondrium. Sometimes the pain gets worse when the fetus moves. But, as a rule, it is easy. It can also disturb the seething in the intestines, the stomach often rumbles.

It happens that in women before the onset of menstruation, the body produces a lot of sex hormones resulting in spasm of the bile ducts. The woman notes nausea and distension, pain in the left side of the abdomen. In this case, you need to consult a gynecologist.

What should be done when pain occurs?

If pain in the left hypochondrium bothers the patient, and the diagnosis has not yet been established, initially you need to contact a therapist who can determine which specialist should be contacted next.

Sometimes an emergency call and subsequent hospitalization is required. So you need to act in the following cases:

  • with sudden sharp pains;
  • with aching pain that does not go away for one hour;
  • with stabbing pains during movement, which do not pass for about 30 minutes;
  • with dull pains and vomiting with blood impurities.

Self-medication is unacceptable. It is especially important not to warm the hypochondrium with a heating pad, as such actions can aggravate the course of the disease. Medications that relieve spasms can disrupt the overall picture and complicate diagnosis. Cold compresses are allowed.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are found everywhere. According to statistics, every second person suffers from problems with the digestive organs.

Most often we are talking about diseases of the stomach. Both the pathologies of this organ and many other diseases can give characteristic symptoms (pain under the left rib).

There are other reasons as well. What should you know about this unpleasant manifestation? Let's consider in more detail.

It hurts under the left rib in front: causes

There are many diseases that manifest this symptom. Among them:

Gastritis. The stomach is located in the upper third of the epigastric region. Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach. Pain can be observed, including in the region of the left side (hypochondrium).

Gastroduodenitis. It is a lesion of the final section of the stomach and duodenum. It is almost impossible to independently distinguish between this pathology and gastritis. Even a doctor at first sight will not be able to make such a diagnosis. Some examinations are required.

Pancreatitis (reactive, etc.). In medical practice, pancreatitis refers to inflammation of the pancreas. This is the most severe disease of those listed, since it is severe, and a fatal outcome is possible.

Abdominal injuries. Bruises and ruptures of internal organs, localized in the abdominal cavity, are accompanied by aching pains in the area of ​​the injury. If we are talking about pain in the left hypochondrium, the following can be affected: pancreas, left kidney, stomach, duodenum, spleen.

Inflammatory lesions of the left kidney. In this case, the pain is localized in the projection of the diseased organ. We can talk about nephritis, pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis. Each of the described diseases can give characteristic symptoms.

Cholecystitis. Inflammatory lesion of the gallbladder. Rarely, however, irradiation (recoil) of pain in the left hypochondrium is still possible.

Cholelithiasis (stones in the gallbladder).

Hepatitis of various origins. They can be mistaken for pancreatitis, since pain is often given to the left hypochondrium, despite the fact that the organ is located on the right.

Sigmoiditis. It is an inflammation of the sigmoid colon.

Colitis. Often, pain during inflammation of the large intestine is localized in the left side in front.

Spleen lesions.

Stomach ulcer. It is life-threatening, because as the process develops, perforation of the stomach wall is possible, followed by the development of peritonitis.

There are many reasons why it hurts under the left rib in front. To understand and identify a specific disease is possible only after passing a series of instrumental studies.

Associated symptoms

Concomitant symptoms play a huge role in differential diagnosis, since it is possible to suspect a particular disease based on characteristic manifestations. Among the symptoms:

Pain syndrome. It is characterized by different intensity and different character. With pancreatitis, the pains are cutting, localized in the left side, are of a girdle character. The same is observed with gastritis, but the pain in this disease increases after eating, while the pancreatic pain syndrome is constant. In other cases, the discomfort is aching, pulling.

dyspepsia. Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, these are all manifestations of stomach problems.

Heartburn. The eternal companion of gastritis and gastroduodenitis. Heartburn is observed after eating and weakens with an empty stomach.

Feeling of bitterness in the mouth. Most often occurs with problems with the gallbladder.

Sensation of heaviness in left side and epigastric region. Heaviness in the epigastric region accompanies stomach problems.

Urination disorders (oliguria - rare urination in small volumes, polyuria - the opposite phenomenon).

Pain radiating to the pubic area, external genitalia.

Feeling of incomplete urination.

Pain in the lower back.

Everything described (the last four points) are symptoms of problems with the excretory system. Probably, the kidneys are involved in the process.

The symptoms are extremely numerous. You need to carefully listen to your own body. Then you need to tell the doctor about all the manifestations. This will make it much easier to make an accurate diagnosis. By this, the patient simplifies the doctor's work, and his life.

Diagnosis of pain in the left hypochondrium

Diagnosis begins with the selection of the right specialist for the visit. Pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract are dealt with by gastroenterologists. There may be problems with the excretory system. Here, urologists and nephrologists come to the rescue (not to be confused with neurologists who treat pathologies of the nervous system).

The first thing a patient needs to do is to seek advice from a general practitioner. He will give the necessary directions and help determine the tactics of diagnosis. At the initial consultation, a specialized specialist will ask questions regarding the patient's condition, the nature of complaints, their intensity and duration. After collecting an anamnesis, palpation begins.

The doctor palpates problem areas, observing pain reactions. Through physical examination, it is possible to determine the structure of organs, their sizes.

At the end of the primary diagnostic measures, the specialist makes an approximate diagnosis and sends the patient for instrumental studies. Among them:

Ultrasound diagnostics of the abdominal organs. It is carried out in order to identify the problematic organ. Allows you to determine the pathology with a high degree of accuracy. The same technique is used to assess the condition of the kidneys.

X-ray of the stomach with contrast agent. It is often prescribed, informative in assessing the state of the stomach.

FGDS. Endoscopic, minimally invasive examination. Allows you to see with your own eyes the esophagus, stomach and the initial sections of the small intestine. Considered the gold standard in gastric examination.

Liver and gastrointestinal scintigraphy. It is used to assess the functional state of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract.

In a complex of data of researches it is enough for diagnostics.

It hurts under the left rib in front: treatment

The answer to the question of what to do if it hurts under the left rib in front suggests an unambiguous answer: you need to be treated. Treatment is predominantly conservative. Only in exceptional cases is surgical intervention necessary. There are few situations when an operation is required, they can be counted on the fingers:

Pancreatitis in the acute phase with a severe course.

Perforated stomach ulcer.

Violation of the integrity of organs in trauma or due to the influence of other factors.

Tumors of the gastrointestinal tract.

In other cases, if it hurts under the left rib in front, the treatment is medical.

The following groups of medicines are used:

Antispasmodic drugs. They are used to relieve pain by relieving spasm of smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. These include: No-shpa, Drotaverin, Duspatalin, etc.

Anti-inflammatory. They are used with great care, since many have a toxic effect on the gastrointestinal tract.

Analgesics. They are prescribed for the relief of pain. Analgesics should be selected carefully.

Analgesics and antispasmodics can also be used at their own discretion on a temporary basis: there is a high risk of "lubricating" the clinical picture with prolonged use. You can take them only 1-3 days before visiting the doctor's office.

The following drugs are also used:

Heptoprotectors - to protect the liver.

Diuretic medicines (diuretics for kidney problems).

Medicines are prescribed only by a doctor and only according to the results of diagnostic measures. Thus, the answer to the question of what to do if it hurts under the left rib in front suggests itself.

It hurts under the left rib in front: prevention

Prevention of pain under the left rib in front is quite simple and includes a number of activities and recommendations:

It is necessary to adhere to a balanced diet: malnutrition (alimentary causes) is a significant factor in the development of gastrointestinal pathologies.

You shouldn't overcool.

At the first pain manifestations, you should go to the doctor without wasting time.

Pain on the left under the rib can be accompanied by a variety of diseases. It is important to respond in time and contact a specialist.

Many are interested in if the left side hurts under the ribs, can it be a hundred? Often, various pains overcome us at the most inopportune moment. A person sometimes cannot determine the nature of the pain. This condition can be influenced by external factors, such as alcohol, an abundance of fatty and spicy foods, and poor environmental conditions. Therefore, in such a condition, do not hesitate, but go for a consultation with a doctor.

Such pain can occur with various diseases, such as heart problems, disorders of the digestive tract, spleen, ureter, back, colitis. Often such pains report violations in the kidneys or lungs, are associated with female diseases. Pain can be present in both adults and children.

Pain in the left side under the ribs can manifest itself in different ways. It all depends on the location of the lesion, the duration of the disease and the individual qualities of the patient. So why does the left side hurt under the ribs?

1 Anatomical arrangement of organs

What is on the left side? In the region of the left side, the organs of the digestive tract are located, therefore, the pain most often occurs due to a violation of the digestive organs.

Discomfort may be associated with malfunctions of the following organs:

  1. Stomach.
  2. Liver.
  3. Pancreas.
  4. Small or large intestine.
  5. The gallbladder, located closer to the left side.

To make a correct diagnosis, the site of damage and the onset of pain is initially determined. The anterior part of the abdominal wall can be conditionally divided into 9 sections and 3 floors:

  1. The first floor - it is called the upper section, here are the epigastric, and two areas of the hypochondrium.
  2. The second floor is the middle one, the navel area is located here, as well as two lateral sections.
  3. The third floor is the department located below all the others, there are two iliac regions - the right and left, and the pubic part.

2 Pain in the hypochondrium after eating

The explanation of the pain on the left under the ribs after eating can be covered in the following simple reasons:

  1. Wrong nutrition. Often people who prefer fast food complain of such pain after eating. This is due to the fact that during cooking, for example, french fries, vegetable oil changes very rarely. Gradually, the oil turns into poison, releasing harmful carcinogens. So it turns out that lovers of snacks "on the go" are most at risk of getting a peptic ulcer.
  2. Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. A person who daily consumes alcohol before and after meals is not immune from many diseases. Of course, in moderate doses, alcoholic beverages are even useful, but the excessive use of alcohol, no doubt, destroys the entire biorhythm of the body, taking away vital resources.
  3. Binge eating. Delicious food in large quantities can lead not only to the appearance of extra pounds. From excessive consumption of food, the stomach is stretched, which leads to pain. You need to eat healthy food and control your weight.
  4. Injury. Often pain after eating can be caused by injuries of a different nature. The result of brute physical force can be hematomas, cracks, micro-tears.

3 Possible diseases

  1. Disease of the spleen. When the spleen is enlarged, its capsule is stretched, in this case there is also pain in the left side under the ribs. This state of affairs is dangerous not only for health, but also for life, since with a slight impact, the organ can burst. And this leads to internal hemorrhage. The first symptom of this condition may be a bluish rim around the navel, since blood accumulates in this particular section. The first thing the patient should do in this case is to call a doctor.
  2. Stomach problems. Pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis, ulcers, neoplasms also cause discomfort in the left side under the ribs. With peptic ulcer or gastritis, after each meal, the pain becomes stronger. If so, visit a gastroenterologist. And if the discomfort is not associated with food - be examined additionally in order to exclude the tumor process. If the pain is associated with the stomach, then it will be accompanied by additional signs in the form of nausea, vomiting, heartburn.
  3. Diaphragm hernia. This disease is common and is characterized by severe pain in the hypochondrium. In this case, part of the stomach goes into the chest cavity, where the esophagus is located. If nausea occurs along with aching pain, then most likely the suspicions are correct. Diaphragmatic hernia often occurs in older people.
  4. Pancreas. Violations in the gallbladder and the development of diabetic disease can appear with a passion for alcohol. If the pancreas is affected, then there is significant pain on the left side of the abdomen, below the ribs, which spreads over the back area.
  5. Heart disease. If pain in the left abdomen is accompanied by shortness of breath, and the pain syndrome spreads to the left arm and shoulder blade, this indicates a heart attack. Call a doctor immediately.
  6. Intercostal neuralgia. Severe pains in the left side under the ribs are sharp and burning.

There are several causes of intercostal neuralgia:

  1. Nerve injury in osteochondrosis.
  2. Lumbar hernia.
  3. Scoliosis.
  4. Ankylosing spondylitis, spondylitis.
  5. Infringement of the intercostal nerves, muscle spasms.

In addition, predisposing factors for the onset of pain can be hypothermia, weight lifting, and nervous tension.

urinary and reproductive systems.

If the pain is associated with problems of the urinary system, then along with this, the person will experience discomfort when urinating. In some cases, the body temperature rises significantly. In diseases of the reproductive system, the menstrual cycle may be disturbed.

4 Occurrence of symptoms in women

Women also often suffer from pain in the side on the left side. For example, diseases of the ovaries or pelvic organs can contribute to this. The most common causes of this condition include the following diseases:

  1. Adnexitis. This is an inflammation of the uterine appendages. There is a cutting pain in the left side, pulling the lower abdomen, fever sets in. Urination is disturbed, the woman is shivering, the muscles in the lower abdomen are tense.
  2. Rupture of cysts. A cyst is a benign tumor that can appear in the left ovary. Strong and sharp pain appears when the cyst ruptures.
  3. Oncology. With cancerous tumors, there are pulling pains in the left side, which become more intense as the neoplasms grow. If such a condition is detected in time, then many problems in the future can be avoided.

5 Manifestations in men

Often such pain can be associated with an inflammatory process in the prostate. The first sign of prostate disease may be a decrease in sexual activity, after some time there is pain in the lower abdomen of a cutting nature, which increases with urination.

Other diseases that can manifest as pain in the side include the following:

  • stones in the prostate;
  • problems with the genitourinary system and urinary tract;
  • cystitis, urethritis;
  • cancerous tumors;
  • hernias formed in the groin area;
  • sexually transmitted diseases.

6 Pain during pregnancy

The greatest danger is the first trimester of pregnancy, then such pain may indicate a possible miscarriage. To avoid a miscarriage or detect an ectopic pregnancy in time, if it pulls in the lower abdomen, dizziness, nausea, weakness appear, if the pain is intense, immediately seek help from a doctor.

Also, discomfort in the left side may appear for the following reasons:

  1. If there are intense contractions of the uterus, from the fact that there is not enough progesterone.
  2. With the rapid growth of the uterus.
  3. With the pressure of the embryo on the intestines, from which the food does not pass well, and, as a result, constipation and pain occur in the left side.

7 Types of pain

  1. Sharp pain, it is also characterized as penetrating. In this condition, you should not hesitate, but it is best to call an ambulance, as severe pain may indicate a ruptured spleen. With these manifestations, an irreversible disruption of the internal organs may occur.
  2. Dull pain in the region of the left hypochondrium occurs with chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Pancreatitis, cholecystitis or other diseases associated with the stomach can provoke such pain.
  3. Aching pain may signal that you have an inflammatory process (duodenitis and colitis). With pain in the hypochondrium on the left side and vomiting, one can talk about stomach ulcers. Aching pain indicates a malfunction in the cardiovascular system (for example, a pre-infarction state, coronary disease, angina pectoris).

The main causes of pain in the left side under the ribs were listed above. Do not guess and look for the cause yourself, only a specialist will help you understand the situation. Remember that some diseases with a similar symptom can be life-threatening. Therefore, your main task is to identify the cause of the pain as early as possible and begin treatment. Having stopped the pain yourself, you will delay the treatment.

Unpleasant sensations in any area of ​​the epigastrium can indicate the development of many diseases and pathological conditions. If pain occurs in the left hypochondrium, people suspect a malfunction of the spleen or pancreas. Sometimes these assumptions are justified, but there are other ailments that cause discomfort in this area.

Why does it hurt on the left under the ribs?

It is easier to find out the factors that provoke the described symptom after clarifying its localization and nature. The cause of pain in the left side under the ribs may be the defeat of the following organs:

  • stomach;
  • bud;
  • spleen;
  • pancreas;
  • intestines;
  • liver;
  • a heart;
  • appendages in women;
  • bladder;
  • spine;
  • lung;
  • nerve bundle between the ribs;
  • diaphragm.

Pain in the left hypochondrium on the side

The most innocuous cause of discomfort in the area under consideration is dietary errors. Short-term pain in the left hypochondrium can occur after drinking alcohol, too fatty and spicy foods, overeating, especially on the eve of sleep. It is often accompanied by additional symptoms - nausea, lack of appetite, weakness and drowsiness.

Pain in the left side under the ribs on the side, at the level of the navel or waist, sometimes indicates serious diseases and dangerous conditions:

  • enlargement, rupture of the spleen;
  • inflammation of the ureter;
  • bleeding in the abdominal cavity;
  • education ;
  • sexually transmitted infections;
  • mechanical injury, bruise.

Pain in the left hypochondrium in front

If the discomfort is localized in the indicated zone, it can also be caused by an improper diet or physical overexertion. In other cases, pain in the left side under the ribs in front signals the progression of the following pathologies:

  • intestinal obstruction;
  • colitis;
  • stomach ulcer;
  • malignant neoplasms in the digestive system;
  • ovarian cyst;
  • acute pancreatitis;
  • gastritis;
  • damage or hernia of the diaphragm;
  • spleen infarction;
  • pleurisy;
  • tuberculosis;
  • left-sided pneumonia;
  • intercostal neuralgia;
  • duodenitis;
  • enteritis;
  • enlargement of the spleen against the background of infections, rheumatoid arthritis, anemia, leukemia;
  • angina;
  • myocardial infarction.

The lumbar region often "suffers" after intense physical exertion, especially weight lifting and running. Pain in the left side under the ribs from behind is the main symptom of kidney and bladder lesions. Its cause may be:

  • pyelonephritis;
  • glomerulonephritis;
  • the presence of stones (stones);
  • omission of the kidney (nephroptosis);
  • hydronephrosis;
  • cystitis;
  • uric acid diathesis;
  • kidney failure.

Other factors that provoke pain in the left hypochondrium closer to the lower back:

  • osteochondrosis;
  • myalgia;
  • inflammation of the lung;
  • pancreatitis;
  • rheumatism;
  • neuralgia;
  • pleurisy;
  • sciatica;
  • rupture of the spleen;
  • inflammation of the pancreas;
  • oncological tumors;
  • flattening of the intervertebral disc;
  • hernia;
  • pregnancy.

Pain in the left hypochondrium when inhaling

The occurrence of unpleasant sensations during breathing is more often explained by such pathologies of the lungs, bronchi and diaphragm:

  • pneumonia;
  • hernia;
  • abscess;
  • bronchitis;
  • tuberculosis.

Sometimes pain in the left side under the ribs when inhaling signals the following problems:

  • intercostal neuralgia;
  • chronic heart disease during an exacerbation;
  • arrhythmia;
  • angina;
  • cardiomyopathy;
  • kidney inflammation;
  • osteochondrosis.

Pain in the left hypochondrium after eating

The appearance of discomfort against the background of eating is always associated with a violation of the functioning of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract. Pain in the left hypochondrium is usually felt after drinking alcohol, fatty and fried foods, overeating. Such nutrition is an excessive load on the pancreas and spleen, causing excessive secretion of bile.

If it regularly hurts on the left under the ribs after eating, and there are additional symptoms (nausea, vomiting, fever, and others), the following conditions may be the causes:

  • stomach or duodenal ulcer;
  • gastritis;
  • enterocolitis;
  • pancreatitis.

The nature of the pain

To clarify the preliminary diagnosis, it is necessary to determine the intensity and quality of the described symptom. Severe pain in the left hypochondrium is often a signal of acute inflammation and requires immediate hospitalization. Weak, but constant, debilitating discomfort indicates a sluggish pathological process in a chronic form.

With this nature of the clinical manifestation, most people adapt to unpleasant sensations, and endure them, delaying the visit to the doctor. Aching pain in the left hypochondrium is a frequent companion of chronic pathologies of the digestive and urinary systems:


  • colitis;
  • pyelonephritis;
  • gastritis;
  • colitis;
  • enteritis;
  • ulcers of the stomach, intestines;
  • pancreatitis;
  • cholecystitis;
  • duodenitis.

These diseases are accompanied by other signs:

  • nausea;
  • weakness;
  • fast fatiguability;
  • stool disorders;
  • lack of appetite;
  • rarely - vomiting.

Sometimes a pulling pain in the left side under the ribs indicates the progression of other ailments not related to digestion:

  • preinfarction state;
  • ischemia of the heart;
  • inflammation of the appendages;
  • oncology of nearby organs, lung;
  • enlargement of the spleen;
  • cirrhosis of the liver.

Sharp pain in the left side under the ribs

An intense, unbearable syndrome is a symptom of a strong inflammatory process. Sharp pain in the left side under the ribs, which occurs during a deep breath or fast, rapid movements, is considered a sign of intercostal neuralgia. Discomfort disappears after changing the position of the body, but returns almost immediately. It is difficult for a person to breathe, there may be a feeling of fear, panic.

Stitching pain in the left side under the ribs always accompanies serious damage to organs against the background of mechanical injuries. In such a situation, it is important to immediately go to the hospital, there is a risk of internal bleeding, rupture of the spleen, renal pelvis, fracture of the ribs and similar pathologies. Other causes that provoke acute pain in the left hypochondrium:

  • purulent pancreatitis;
  • perforated stomach ulcer;
  • infringement of a kidney cyst;
  • intestinal perforation;
  • hematoma of the spleen;
  • renal colic.

Dull pain in the left hypochondrium

Similar to the aching form, this nature of the pathological condition is characteristic of chronic diseases. Dull pain in the left side under the ribs may occur after the abuse of alcohol or "heavy" food. In such cases, it disappears on its own, subject to the normalization of the diet. If the pain syndrome is stable, observed regularly or constantly, it can be provoked by the following reasons:

  • oncological tumors of the digestive organs;
  • stomach ulcer;
  • gastritis;
  • pancreatitis;
  • nephritis;
  • enlargement of the spleen against the background of infections, endocrine, autoimmune pathologies;
  • colitis;
  • uric acid diathesis;
  • glomerulonephritis;
  • unilateral pleurisy;
  • pneumonia.

A feeling of twitching inside is characteristic of chronic progressive pancreatitis. Stitching pain in the left hypochondrium is replaced by a pulsation, as if there was an abscess in the indicated area. This is an extremely dangerous phenomenon that can result in a severe shock condition. In addition to the pain syndrome in chronic pancreatitis, accompanying symptoms are observed:

  • bloating;
  • vomit;
  • diarrhea;
  • sweating;
  • chills;
  • increase in body temperature;
  • swelling of the limbs;
  • complete lack of appetite;
  • constipation;
  • change in the perception of taste;
  • bitterness in the mouth;
  • weakness;
  • night sleep disturbances;
  • thirst.

Burning pain in left side under ribs

The described symptom is often tormented by pregnant women in the last stages of gestation. Pain, burning in the left hypochondrium is caused by strong pressure on the internal organs of the enlarged uterus. The closer the due date, the more intense the problem under consideration. In other cases, burning, sharp pain in the left hypochondrium is explained by such pathologies:

  • diaphragmatic hernia;
  • mechanical damage to the digestive organs;
  • neuralgia;
  • heart attack;
  • cardiomyopathy;
  • arterial thrombosis of the spleen;
  • splenomegaly;
  • duodenitis;
  • colitis;
  • pyelonephritis;
  • infectious lesion of the bladder;
  • rheumatism;
  • stomach ulcer;
  • oncology.

Pressing pain in left side under ribs

This variant of the clinical picture often accompanies chronic renal ailments. Weak and moderate pressing pain in the left hypochondrium causes the following.

Pain in the left hypochondrium in front of the place where the spleen, pancreas, intestines are concentrated, the left kidney can also be given there

When something hurts, very few of us immediately run to the doctor. On the one hand, it is better not to take risks, because acute pain can indicate a serious health disorder that requires immediate medical attention. However, on the other hand, depending on the localization of pain, a person can independently determine what exactly worries him, and only then make a decision to visit a doctor.

What is included in the region of the left hypochondrium?

In our today's material, the causes of pain under the ribs, which are located on the left, will be considered. The side of the abdomen just below the rib on the left is the place where the spleen, pancreas, and intestines are concentrated. Also, the left kidney or ureter can give there. By itself, the hypochondrium region is the upper quadrant on the left, which is located under the ribs.

Causes of pain in the front of the hypochondrium on the left

Now let's talk about the most common causes that entail the appearance of pain:

  • If the pain is stabbing and occurs during exercise.

If you ran a couple of kilometers and felt an unpleasant tingling sensation, you should not worry. Similar stabbing pains occur in most healthy people during prolonged physical activity. After some time, the pain will go away on its own.

Hence the conclusion: before any physical activity, we must do a thorough warm-up so that the body adapts to a rapid increase in blood circulation.

When the pain manifests itself during exercise, it is better not to test yourself for strength, but to stop, how to relax the whole body (shoulders, arms, legs) and breathe well. When exhaling, you can lightly press your palm on the place where it hurts the most, and then lean forward. We repeat several times - and move on.

In general, breathing during such loads should be deep. If we breathe often, small excursions of the diaphragm begin, the body does not have enough oxygen. It is also not recommended to run less than an hour and a half after a hearty meal. At this time, the body has not yet had time to adapt to physical activity.

  • Cutting pain.

It can also be called "dagger". With the appearance of such a sharp pain for no apparent reason, it makes sense to consult a doctor. Acute pain that suddenly arises in the left hypochondrium may indicate a rupture of the spleen, as well as perforation of the walls of the stomach.

  • Relieves pain after an injury.

Asking for help is a must. Especially if the injury was caused by a fall. It is possible that the internal organs received serious damage.

  • There is a dull pain.

Worried about the prolonged pain that "spills" around the hypochondrium? If she "rolls" in periods, this is already a cause for concern. Such symptoms indicate a mild disease of the stomach, intestines, etc. For example, cholecystitis or gastritis. To confirm or exclude pathologies, go to a gastroenterologist to take tests and undergo an ultrasound scan.

  • The aching pain dragged on.

Is something constantly pulling at the bottom left? This is a characteristic symptom of colitis, although duodenitis should not be ruled out either. Sometimes the pain is accompanied by nausea. Do not rule out a stomach ulcer. The most dangerous thing is that aching pains can talk about a pre-infarction condition.

To summarize, pains of a different nature under the ribs can indicate such diseases:

  • Coming heart attack, damage to the heart muscle.
  • Disease of the gastrointestinal tract. For example, common gastritis or cholecystitis. More serious disorders are stomach ulcers or pancreatitis.
  • Neuralgia.
  • Rupture of the spleen due to a blow, its enlargement due to another disease.
  • Diaphragm tumor or injury.

In rare cases, pain may indicate a rheumatic manifestation, pneumonia that has arisen in the left side of the lung below.

Types of pain and how to recognize them

All pains can be divided according to the mechanism of occurrence. This indicator is an additional sign that helps to determine the pathology.


Reflected pain appears as radiating from an organ located relatively far from the site of pain. In other words, you may have a heart attack or left-sided pneumonia, and you will think that something happened to the stomach.

Visceral pain. Most often caused by intestinal spasms and muscle strain. Flatulence is also accompanied by aching, dull pains, cramping conditions with colic, radiating to nearby areas.

Peritoneal pain. Has a clear localization. It causes irritation of the peritoneum - for example, in the case of stomach ulcers. With deep breathing and sudden movements, the pain intensifies.

Now let's look at the types of pain by the nature of their localization. If a pulls under the ribs in front, a differential diagnosis is made between myocardial infarction, diseases of the spleen and stomach. The shift of pain closer to the central part may indicate diseases of the stomach in combination with problems of the gallbladder or duodenum 12.

Localization of pain in the hypochondrium, but more behind may indicate kidney damage. By itself, such pain is quite strong and can also signal osteochondrosis. For diagnosis, ultrasound is performed, urine and blood tests are taken. To diagnose osteochondrosis, palpation of the nerve processes is performed.

Another type of pain is its girdle character, passing to the anterior wall of the peritoneum. Such a symptom may indicate inflammation of the pancreas. At first, the pain is girdle, but then subsides a little if you lean forward.

Diseases with pain in the left hypochondrium in front

Now you understand that “just like that” nothing can hurt in the region of the left hypochondrium. Below we will consider the most common diseases that make themselves felt with such symptoms.

  • Diaphragm pathology.

If the pain does not stop, they may indicate a pathology of the diaphragm. It has a special opening that separates the peritoneum from the chest. It is necessary for the esophagus to properly connect with the stomach. If the muscle tissue is weakened, the lumen begins to expand. The upper section begins to go into the chest cavity, which is unacceptable. The stomach throws the contents back into the esophagus, which causes pain on the left, sometimes with nausea.

Why does diaphragmatic hernia develop? There are several reasons - from heavy loads to pregnancy. Due to the weakness of the muscular apparatus, a hernia can occur in the elderly. But if there is a pinched stomach, the pain is cutting.

  • Intercostal neuralgia.

Irritation, strong compression of the nerve between the ribs will necessarily entail discomfort. The most common is a pulling pain, which intensifies if you sharply inhale air. The attack is accompanied by tingling in the chest area, which radiates to the left hypochondrium. Twitching of individual muscle groups is observed, the skin may turn pale, sweating is increased. Painful sensations appear if you press on the points of the back, as well as between the ribs. Pain in the hypochondrium does not depend on the time of day and weather. It can be observed both in the morning and in the evening.

  • Cardiac pathology.

Ischemic heart disease can remind of itself with pain in the left side. However, such pain is also accompanied by shortness of breath during exercise, nausea, heart palpitations, heaviness in the chest. Similar pains can be observed with cardiomyopathy - as in medicine they call a violation of the blood supply to the heart.

  • Problems with the spleen.

The fact is that the spleen is very close to the surface of the human body. Any of its pathologies are accompanied by painful sensations. If it is infectious mononucleosis, additional symptoms may include fever and muscle pain, as well as swollen lymph nodes.

Spleen hypertrophy- this is a state when the body begins to work in an enhanced mode and perform immune, phagocytic functions. The size of the organ increases, which causes pain on the left. Particularly sharp pain can occur with injury or impact. Blueness of the skin around the navel indicates a rupture of the spleen.

  • Diseases of the stomach and pancreas.

It is worth noting that these diseases are one of the most common causes of unpleasant pain in the hypochondrium. The first place is occupied by gastritis, which affects the majority of citizens of our country. The spread of the disease is not due to the best state of the modern food industry. Our gastric mucosa reacts very subtly to any irritants. Something, but there are enough of them in our diet. The most characteristic signs of gastritis are aching pain in the hypochondrium and epigastric region, nausea and unpleasant belching, heartburn, a feeling of heaviness. These symptoms appear after a heavy meal.

  • Ulcer disease.

Has similar symptoms. However, if the ulcer is perforated, the main symptom is a fairly sharp, cutting pain. It occurs suddenly, and a person may even lose consciousness.

  • Diseases of the pancreas.

A characteristic symptom of pancreatitis is severe pain in the hypochondrium on the left. It is accompanied by vomiting with bile, severe and constant nausea, bitterness in the mouth. The temperature may rise, the urine turns dark.

  • Oncological diseases.

You should be alerted by discomfort in the hypochondrium if it is accompanied by an aversion to a particular food, lack of appetite, rapid satiety, a series of diarrhea and constipation.

Now you know what pain in the left hypochondrium is and what you need to do with one or another of its manifestations.