Pain on the left under the ribs - possible causes by location and nature, diagnosis and treatment methods. Pain in the left hypochondrium: causes and possible diseases

Pain in the left hypochondrium is common cause patient requests for medical care. This pathological condition can occur in several variants - the pain syndrome can be localized both in the front and behind, and be stabbing, cutting or dull in nature. Also discomfort may vary in intensity and duration. But all this says one thing - you should contact the medical institution. Find out what caused the appearance pain syndrome, can only be done by a qualified specialist, after carrying out additional instrumental and laboratory research.

The left hypochondrium is the area of ​​the human body that is located under the 2 lower ribs on the left side of the midline abdominal cavity. Despite its small size, quite a few anatomical formations are localized here:

  • loops of the small and large intestines;
  • spleen;
  • part of the stomach;
  • pancreas;
  • left side of the diaphragm;
  • ligaments;
  • left kidney, its ureter.

Most often, pain in the left hypochondrium is the first symptom that the full functioning of these organs has been disrupted. But we should not exclude the possibility that pain can also occur in the presence of pathologies of organs that are localized in other parts of the body (transmitted via nerve endings).

Etiological factors

  • stomach pathologies. Usually, the appearance of pain in the left hypochondrium is a sign of progression or (during diagnosis, it is important to consider whether the pain occurs after eating);
  • pathologies of the left kidney (, etc.);
  • ailments of the spleen;
  • pathology of the pancreas. In this case, pain can be provoked;
  • inflammatory processes progressing in reproductive system women ();
  • hernias, tumors, inflammation of the diaphragm (pain syndrome manifests itself when inhaling or exhaling);
  • lung (in this case characteristic feature is the appearance of pain when coughing);
  • pathologies of the heart muscle. Often pain in the front in the left hypochondrium indicates progression;
  • increased physical loads;
  • trauma to this area;
  • postoperative consequences. Often pain appears after surgical intervention has been performed in this area.

Varieties

In medicine, the following classification of pain in the left hypochondrium is used, based on the nature of its manifestation:

  • piercing;
  • pulling;
  • cutting or sharp;
  • dull or aching.

Each type of pain serves as a unique signal that the functioning of certain organs has been impaired. Based on the nature of the pain, clinicians can even determine which organ was affected. Therefore, at the initial appointment, they usually ask patients how their pain syndrome manifests itself.

Sharp painful sensations

Sharp pain is the most dangerous species, as it usually indicates the presence of serious organ damage. If it occurs, the patient should be immediately hospitalized for further assistance in inpatient conditions. The pain is so sharp that often after its onset a person can simply lose consciousness. But this is not always observed. If consciousness is preserved, then the person begins to try to independently find a position in which the intensity of the pain syndrome decreases at least slightly.

Reasons for appearance:

  • , which is pinched by the tissues surrounding it;
  • pancreatitis in acute form;
  • perforated type stomach ulcer;
  • perforation of an intestinal loop;
  • left hypochondrium injuries varying degrees gravity. Pain can occur after a fracture of the ribs, or a kidney, etc.

Dull pain

Dull pain in the left hypochondrium - sure sign the fact that some chronic pathological process is occurring in this area. Often, patients quickly get used to such uncomfortable sensations, so they do not consult a doctor to find out the true cause of their occurrence. And by doing this they only aggravate the current situation. It's a dull pain in the left hypochondrium often occurs before or after eating food.

Reasons for appearance:

  • (pain syndrome can often occur after eating or before eating);
  • pancreatitis (the appearance of discomfort associated with eating);
  • inflammation of the appendages (in women);
  • the presence of a benign or malignant tumor in the left lung (painful sensations are observed when inhaling and exhaling, as well as coughing);
  • , or spleen is often accompanied by a dull pain in the left hypochondrium;
  • coronary heart disease (increased pain on inspiration);

Pulling pain

A nagging pain is characteristic of damage to the spleen. This organ has the peculiarity of enlarging in the case of chronic autoimmune and infectious processes. If observed, then a nagging pain often occurs.

Often this type pain may appear when, simultaneously with pain in the right hypochondrium. A person's condition may worsen after eating fatty foods. The clinical picture is complemented by hepatomegaly and heaviness inside the abdomen.

Painful sensations of a stabbing nature

Stitching pain may manifest itself in humans against the background of pyelonephritis or urolithiasis. As a rule, discomfort in this case can radiate. The clinical picture is often supplemented by symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, impaired urine output, etc. The pain may intensify after a person changes position (the formed conglomerates begin to move and injure the mucous membrane Bladder and kidneys).

Measures in case of pain

If a person begins to experience discomfort in the left hypochondrium after eating, while inhaling, when coughing, or in a state of complete rest, then he should immediately contact a medical facility to find out the true causes of this condition. Several doctors perform diagnostics:

  • cardiologist;
  • surgeon;
  • gynecologist;
  • endocrinologist;
  • gastroenterologist and others.

If a specified place on the body begins to hurt, you should not self-medicate, as you can only worsen your condition and provoke the progression of complications. It is also strictly forbidden to warm up the area where the pain syndrome is localized. The only thing you can do is apply cold to the affected area. It is strictly forbidden to take antispasmodics if pain appears in the left hypochondrium when coughing, after and before meals, at rest, etc. They reduce pain, thereby complicating the process of diagnosis and clarification. the real reason its manifestations.

An ambulance should be called in the following cases:

  • dull pain accompanied by coughing, vomiting mixed with blood;
  • acute pain that occurs suddenly;
  • aching pain that does not stop for one hour;
  • stabbing pain that does not go away for 30 minutes, and tends to intensify when changing position.

The left hypochondrium contains the spleen, stomach, pancreas, intestinal loops (as, indeed, everywhere in the abdomen) and the left side of the diaphragm. Thus, pain in the left hypochondrium can be caused by damage and disease of these organs.

Due to the fact that the stomach and duodenum, pain in the left hypochondrium may appear on an empty stomach or, conversely, after eating. Pain syndrome may also be associated with heart pathology.

Causes of pain in the left hypochondrium

Pain in the left hypochondrium may be associated with the spleen. The spleen lies very close to the surface of the body. The main job of the spleen is to remove red blood cells from the blood, after they are normal life within 120 days.

It captures them, destroys them, after which their components become Bone marrow where new blood cells are formed. In a number of diseases, the spleen enlarges, its capsule stretches, and this causes pain. Because the spleen is located close to the surface of the body, it is susceptible to rupture.

Causes of splenic rupture can include trauma and diseases such as infectious mononucleosis. With this disease, the spleen becomes enlarged in size and has a soft consistency. And all this increases the likelihood of its rupture.

Sometimes an enlarged spleen ruptures on its own. A telltale sign of a splenic rupture, in addition to pain and tenderness in the corresponding area, is bluishness of the skin around the navel (due to the accumulation of blood). Pain in the left hypochondrium can be caused by the stomach.

Anything that irritates the stomach lining causes (stomach inflammation) or functional dyspepsia, may cause pain. More often than not this pain is aching character, often accompanied by nausea and even vomiting. Antacid medications prescribed by your doctor will help. In general, only a doctor can tell you exactly what you have.

Stomach pain may also occur with peptic ulcer, gastritis and . After completing a series of laboratory tests and examinations (including endoscopic), the doctor will finally diagnose you and prescribe treatment.

Pain in the left hypochondrium (upper left quadrant) may be associated with. The diaphragm, which separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity, has an opening through which the esophagus passes on its way to the stomach.

Pain in the left hypochondrium may be a symptom of the following diseases:

Which doctors should I contact for pain in the left hypochondrium?

Questions and answers on the topic "Pain in the left hypochondrium"

Question:I'm on nervous soil I lost 9 kg in 4 months. After that, I had a constant feeling of discomfort in the left hypochondrium. It was as if something was bothering me there. This does not depend on food intake. Moreover, when I lie or sit in a certain position, I don’t feel anything. And when I walk or stand, it aches and interferes. Constant feeling anxiety and worry. A large nodule was discovered on the thyroid gland; I did not have an examination. Bye. Pressure jumps. And a low pulse, although usually high. I take Normiten and Glucomin. What could it be. And who among the doctors can I approach to at least make a diagnosis, in what direction to work, I’m scared and anxious from not understanding what is happening to me.

Answer: To check, you need to go to a general practitioner and get an x-ray. chest, get tested and have your thyroid gland checked by an endocrinologist.

Question:Hello! A 70-year-old man is lying sick. Group 1 disabled person after a traumatic brain injury. He has pain under the ribs on his left side. The general practitioner said it was intercostal neurogia. You need to apply ointments. Nothing helps him. The doctor says that he is old. What to do?

Answer: Pain in the left hypochondrium can be a manifestation of many diseases, such as gastritis, pancreatitis, diaphragmatic hernia and many other pathologies. This pain may be associated with an enlarged spleen. Try changing your spouse's diet, you need to switch to fractional meals(frequently, but in small portions), be sure to daily use mucous porridges, soups, you need to exclude fatty, fried foods, spices. For a more accurate diagnosis, you need to perform fibrogastroscopy and ultrasound of the abdominal organs.

Question:I'm worried about sharp pain in the left hypochondrium 10-15 minutes after eating. I can’t move - it grabs me like that. I wait until he lets go and immediately run to the toilet with diarrhea. But recently (after taking a certain amount of alcohol) I began to feel completely unwell, weakness appeared, temperature up to 37.5, pain in the joints and trembling, it’s already the 3rd day, and I haven’t felt sick. A rash also appeared on the lips and chin. Why should I not eat at all now? Unpleasant feeling in the mouth. There is no feeling of hunger, but I eat so as not to faint. I am 26 years old, weight 63 kg, I had an operation to remove the gallbladder laparoscopically due to the presence of stones. I drink and smoke.

Answer: You should definitely consult a general practitioner who will prescribe necessary research and determine the cause of your symptoms.

Question:Good afternoon I have been suffering from pain under my left rib for a month. The pain radiates to top part back and heart. It starts to hurt in the morning and mainly when turning the body. During the day there is no such pain. I visited the doctor 3 times. They did an ultrasound. Conclusion: " Diffuse changes in the parenchyma of the liver and pancreas. Bend of the gallbladder. Stones in right kidney"The urine tests were not very good. Urates ++, Bacteria++. They treated me for pyelonephritis. I took: nolicin 400 mg 2 times a day, no-spa 2 tablets 3 times a day, canephron 2 tablets 3 times a day . The pain has not stopped. I no longer know where or which doctor I should go to. Maybe you can give me useful advice. Thank you!

Answer: In the left hypochondrium there is the spleen, stomach, pancreas, intestinal loops (as, indeed, everywhere in the abdomen) and the left part of the diaphragm. In a number of diseases, the spleen enlarges, its capsule stretches, and this causes pain. Pain in the left hypochondrium can be caused by the stomach. Anything that irritates the stomach lining, causes gastritis (inflammation of the stomach) or functional dyspepsia, can cause pain. Pain in the left hypochondrium (upper left quadrant) may be associated with a diaphragmatic hernia. The diaphragm, which separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity, has an opening through which the esophagus passes on its way to the stomach. Pain may be a consequence of intercostal neuralgia, herpes zoster, or rib fractures. Even now you have at least three reasons for pain: “Diffuse changes in the parenchyma of the liver and pancreas. Kink in the gallbladder.” Examination: FGDS, fluoroscopy of the esophagus with contrast, chest radiography, blood amylase, urine amylase, bilirubin, AST, ALT, ECG.

Question:My mother is 82 years old, she hasn’t gone to the toilet without laxatives for quite a long time, about 5 days ago she had a stomach ache on the left side under the ribs, it hurts to turn around and lie down, when going to the toilet a cloudy liquid comes out, there is almost no stool. What could this be and which doctor is best to see?

Answer: Good afternoon First of all, you should contact a surgeon! And immediately!

Question:Hello. I have had periodic pain under my ribs in the heart area for several years now. Without any visible reasons, suddenly, a sharp pain pierces me, I can’t move, it’s terribly painful to take a breath, I can only exhale in small portions until I start to turn white from suffocation (though I’ve now learned to quietly “breathe” through the abdominal cavity - I can already hold on), then it slowly moves away. I saw a therapist, they sent me for a cardiogram - everything was normal, they prescribed pills to reduce my heart rate (my heart beat 110 or more beats per minute in a state of absolute rest), but nothing else. Now, with the pain, there is no feeling of paralysis, I can’t just straighten up, and the pain itself has become longer and more frequent. Please tell me what this could be and how to deal with it? Thank you very much.

Answer: Hello. In this case, you are dealing with radicular pain syndrome and its typical manifestations, suddenness of occurrence, connection with the act of breathing. It is very correct that you were sent for an ECG, thereby ruling out gross heart pathology. IN in this case first of all, you need to contact a neurologist and establish the cause of the pain - it may be associated with pinched root, the presence of a cold component, etc. And only after the pain syndrome has been eliminated can you contact a cardiologist to adjust your heart rate and eliminate the cause of its occurrence.

Question:Hello! Please tell me which doctor is best to contact for my symptoms in order to establish correct diagnosis? For 5 days now I have had a pain under my left rib somewhere in the depths (it feels like), I can’t really feel it, it doesn’t hurt when I press it, and today two more symptoms have been added: the urine has become brown, dark in the morning, and in the evening, after urinating, burning in the urinary tract. I’m very concerned because I’m 29 years old and I’m the only one driving healthy image life, raising two children, and here it is. Thanks for the answer!

Answer: Good afternoon. Urgently contact your therapist. You need an examination: general blood test, urine test, blood biochemistry.

Question:Hello! I am 23 years old. I almost always worry about daily pain in the left hypochondrium. About a month. Sometimes sharp (a couple of times even in my sleep), but mostly aching. There is also belching, it seems that food is asking to come out! They say it's stomach problems. At the same time, pimples regularly appear on the forehead - this is also said to be a consequence of stomach problems. They write that it is necessary to exclude acute fatty foods etc. But I almost never use this. I've been trying to stick to it for several years now. healthy eating. Well, on average, something like a breakdown happens once a month, but this is very rare. IN Lately I started eating fiber. Is it still the stomach or are there other possible reasons? Who should I go to for an appointment?

Answer: Good afternoon You should contact a gastroenterologist. First of all, it is necessary to exclude gastroduodenal diseases.

Unpleasant sensations in any area of ​​the epigastrium may 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 causing discomfort in this area.

Why does it hurt on the left side under the ribs?

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

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

Pain in the left hypochondrium on the side

Most harmless reason Unpleasant sensations in the area under consideration are diet 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 additional signs– 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 illnesses and dangerous conditions:

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

Pain in the left hypochondrium anteriorly

If the discomfort is localized in the specified area, it may also be caused by wrong diet or physical stress. 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;
  • splenic infarction;
  • pleurisy;
  • tuberculosis;
  • left-sided pneumonia;
  • intercostal neuralgia;
  • duodenitis;
  • enteritis;
  • enlargement of the spleen due to infections, rheumatoid arthritis, anemia, leukemia;
  • angina pectoris;
  • myocardial infarction.

The lumbar region often “suffers” after intense exercise. physical activity, especially lifting weights and running. Pain in the left side under the ribs at the back is the main symptom of damage to the kidney and bladder. Its cause may be:

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

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

  • osteochondrosis;
  • myalgia;
  • pneumonia;
  • pancreatitis;
  • rheumatism;
  • neuralgia;
  • pleurisy;
  • sciatica;
  • splenic rupture;
  • 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 often explained by the following pathologies of the lungs, bronchi and diaphragm:

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

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

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

Pain in the left hypochondrium after eating

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

If there is regular pain on the left under the ribs after eating, and there are additional symptoms(nausea, vomiting, elevated body temperature and others), the causes may be the following conditions:

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

Nature of 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 acute inflammation and demands immediate appeal in hospital. Mild but constant, debilitating discomfort indicates a sluggish pathological process V chronic form.

With such a character clinical manifestation Most people adapt to unpleasant sensations and tolerate them, postponing a visit to the doctor. Aching pain in the left hypochondrium is a frequent companion chronic pathologies digestive and urinary system:


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

The listed diseases are accompanied by other symptoms:

  • nausea;
  • weakness;
  • fast fatiguability;
  • bowel disorders;
  • lack of appetite;
  • rarely – vomiting.

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

  • pre-infarction condition;
  • cardiac ischemia;
  • inflammation of the appendages;
  • oncology of nearby organs, lung;
  • enlarged spleen;
  • cirrhosis of the liver.

Sharp pain in the left side under the ribs

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

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

  • purulent pancreatitis;
  • perforated stomach ulcer;
  • strangulation of a kidney cyst;
  • intestinal perforation;
  • splenic hematoma;
  • renal colic.

Dull pain in the left hypochondrium

Similar to the aching form, this character pathological condition characteristic chronic diseases. A dull pain in the left side under the ribs can occur after abuse of alcohol or “heavy” foods. In such cases, it disappears on its own, subject to 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;
  • enlarged spleen due to infections, endocrine, autoimmune pathologies;
  • colitis;
  • uric acid diathesis;
  • glomerulonephritis;
  • unilateral pleurisy;
  • pneumonia.

The feeling of twitching inside is characteristic of chronic progressive pancreatitis. A stabbing pain in the left hypochondrium is replaced by pulsation, as if there is an abscess in the indicated area. This is extremely dangerous phenomenon, which can end badly state of shock. In addition to the pain syndrome chronic pancreatitis accompanying symptoms are observed:

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

Burning pain in the left side under the ribs

Pregnant women in the last stages of pregnancy often suffer from the described symptom. Pain, burning in the left hypochondrium is caused by strong pressure on internal organs 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 the following pathologies:

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

Pressing pain in the left side under the ribs

This option clinical picture often accompanies chronic kidney diseases. Weak to moderate pressing pain in the left hypochondrium has the following causes.

Dull pain in the left hypochondrium in front is the first symptom of a serious pathology. The most important thing in this situation is to see a doctor as soon as possible. Based on the collected history and examination, the doctor will be able to establish a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. Pain has a broad meaning, according to many doctors. But the main thing is that the category of the disease can be determined by its type and location. It is enough for an experienced specialist to carefully listen to all the colors of the patient’s pain syndrome in order to make a preliminary diagnosis. Pain under the left rib in the front can be of several categories:

  1. Peritoneal pain syndrome. This pain actually does not stop and is in one place. When moving, the pain becomes more pronounced and acute. The nature of such pain refers to a perforated ulcer, which requires immediate surgical intervention.
  2. Visceral pain syndrome. It may be cramping, dull and aching. Has the property of irradiating into nearby organs. Such pain is characteristic of diseases digestive system, intestinal pathology and stomach diseases.
  3. The pain has a wandering characteristic. This pain syndrome is difficult to diagnose. The patient cannot clearly determine the permanent location. Signs of pain of a wandering nature: most of all there is a dull pain in the left hypochondrium in front and, to a lesser extent, radiates to the stomach.
  4. It is located directly in the affected organ.

What causes pain in the left hypochondrium? All reasons are divided into two degrees:

  • Pain that is typical for diseases in the upper left abdomen.
  • Diseases where the pain syndrome is located in the very lower left abdomen.

The most known diseases at the top left are:

  • a type of gastritis;
  • food poisoning;
  • flatulence;
  • constipation;
  • peptic ulcer;
  • pathologies of the spleen;
  • stomach cancer;
  • pancreatitis;
  • myocardial infarction;
  • intestinal obstruction.

The specifics of treatment will depend on the correct established diagnosis. Therefore, a timely visit to a doctor will prevent the situation from worsening and quickly get rid of the problem.

Now let's look at each disease in more detail.

Gastritis

Pain under the left rib in the front can be caused by gastritis. With this pathology, pain occurs due to an irritant factor in the gastric mucosa. Symptoms of gastritis include the following:

  • increased weakness;
  • flatulence;
  • constipation or diarrhea;
  • (can be on both the right and left) of a burning or dull aching nature.

Food poisoning

A dull pain in the left hypochondrium in front can be caused by the usual This disease occurs when low-quality food enters the stomach. Food poisoning is also accompanied by high temperature and general weakness.

Flatulence

Why is there pain in the left hypochondrium in front? The reasons may be different. Among them is such a disease as flatulence. The pain in this case is caused by a large amount of gas in the stomach. It is accompanied by belching unpleasant smell. Flatulence can lead to intestinal obstruction, if treatment is not started on time.

Pathology of the spleen

Dull pain in the left hypochondrium in front may be due to problems with the spleen (trauma, ulcer, sepsis, hepatitis). Violation of the integrity of the spleen is characterized by pain, burning, vomiting, and general intoxication of the entire body. The patient also develops a need to take large quantity water, decreased blood pressure and increased heart rate. The spleen is one of the main organs, and if there is pain in it, you should urgently go to the hospital and undergo full examination to establish the location of pain.

Pancreatitis

Under the ribs in front can be a signal of pancreatitis. The disease is acute and chronic. Symptoms of pancreatic pathology:

  • the patient develops increased weakness;
  • dizziness;
  • vomiting reflex;
  • weight loss.

Myocardial infarction

Pain in the left hypochondrium, radiating and dull in front, is one of And this disease, as we know, is very dangerous and fraught with consequences. Therefore, with unpleasant aching, dull pain in front under the ribs, and radiating to the area of ​​the scapula, you should urgently call a doctor.

Constipation

The pain is localized in the abdomen and radiates to the left side. Constipation is a pathology in which there is no feces for two days.

Intestinal obstruction

This pathology is accompanied by heaviness in the left hypochondrium. Also characterized by nausea, vomiting, increased flatulence, weakness and lack of feces.

Stomach ulcer

Pain appears in the stomach due to irritation of the mucous membrane. Over time, the mucous membrane becomes covered with ulcers and its destruction occurs. The following symptoms are also characteristic of an ulcer:

  • vomiting reflex;
  • pain that radiates to the left hypochondrium;
  • belching;
  • weakness.

You should know that pain during a peptic ulcer can be a harbinger of a serious pathology, such as a perforated ulcer. It is characterized by severe stabbing pain, a state of shock in the patient, vomiting mixed with blood, loss of consciousness and general intoxication of the body.

Pyelonephritis

Kidney pathology, which is characterized by an inflammatory process, can be acute or chronic. Chronic pyelonephritis are characterized by dull and nagging pain on the left side. In the acute form, strong and cutting pain is observed on the left side of the lower abdomen.

Urolithiasis disease

Pain due to urolithiasis can be equally felt on both the right and left lower abdomen. Painful sensations on the left side of the abdomen are observed when the stone moves along the left ureter from the peritoneum. Urolithiasis disease represents the formation of stones of various etiologies and sizes in the organs of the urinary system.

Causes of pain on the left

Pain that is located on the upper left side can be the cause of the following pathologies:

  • diaphragmatic hernia;
  • left-sided pneumonia;
  • pleurisy on the left side;
  • closed and open injuries abdominal cavity;
  • pathologies of the spleen;
  • different types of neuralgia;
  • stomach diseases.

Characteristics of pain under the ribs on the left

It's a dull pain. This type of pain accompanies inflammatory process protracted nature. The main causes of such pain are duodenitis and colitis. With a stomach ulcer, along with pain there is nausea and vomiting. Still aching can be the cause of cardiac and vascular pathologies.

Acute pain requires immediate hospitalization and examination by a specialist to make a preliminary diagnosis. Basically, pain under the ribs on the left indicates perforation of the stomach, pathology of the spleen.

Dull pain. In most cases, it refers to a chronic form of stomach and intestinal disease. These include cholecystitis, gastritis, pancreatitis.

Pain in the left lower abdomen during pregnancy

When a pregnant woman experiences pain in the left lower abdomen, she should immediately consult a specialist to avoid serious complications. Symptoms of pregnancy pathology:

  • pain on the left side does not go away within 30 minutes;
  • pain increases over time;
  • acute dagger pain in the left side with normal general condition.

All listed pain symptoms characterize the onset of a threatened abortion, where immediate consultation with a gynecologist is needed and emergency therapy. When the pain is nagging and short-lived during pregnancy, this is due to the growth of the uterus early stages. The uterus, which has an increased size, causes pressure on nearby organs and can also cause slight and nagging pain. Pain in the left lower abdomen may also indicate pressure on the intestines from the growing uterus. Quite often, pregnant women suffer from constipation, which also causes pain and discomfort, mainly on the left side. During gestation, the body produces special hormones that inhibit the functioning of the intestines, thereby causing stagnation in it.

Left cancer pain

When there is pain in the left hypochondrium in the front, this may be a signal of intestinal cancer. In its first stage, the patient does not feel severe pain, but only the first harbingers of the disease. These include frequent constipation, which is accompanied by cracks. If pathology occurs, you need to undergo computed tomography or have a colonoscopy. Based on the results, the exact location of the tumor, its size and the stage of the cancer can be determined. In most cases, the pain can be identical to various diseases, therefore, in order not to make a mistake with the diagnosis, it is necessary to assign the patient additional diagnostics.

Results

Dull pressing pain in the left hypochondrium in front requires not only an urgent examination by a specialist, but also further examination. Health workers have such a concept as acute stomach, which is fraught with serious complications. This term means urgent hospitalization of the patient, otherwise complications can lead to death. When there is pain in the abdominal cavity at the top or bottom left, then you should not risk your health, and you need to undergo an examination.

Usually pain different categories requires prompt intervention and an immediate call to ambulance. Remember that health largely depends on the patient himself, as well as on correct setting diagnosis and timely assistance. You should not take painkillers on your own, which will smooth out the picture of the emerging pathology. Only qualified specialist help can eliminate pain and normalize the functioning of the diseased organ.

To avoid the occurrence of pathology in the female reproductive system, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist twice a year and undergo additional examination. After all, as you know, gynecological diseases occur with pain, which is localized on the lower left side. Such pain can be a harbinger of a serious illness, which is fraught not only with deterioration general well-being, but also more serious complications.

Treating the cause of pain in the left hypochondrium is the best solution. If you feel the corresponding pain, you should not try to relieve it on your own, because its cause can be many serious diseases that only a doctor can detect. If you experience pain, you should urgently contact a specialist who will find out its source and initiate appropriate therapy. Be healthy!

Flare-up pain in the left hypochondrium can be evidence of many diseases.

Problems with organs such as the heart, stomach, pancreas and spleen can often cause severe pain in the left hypochondrium and pain in the left side. The nature of the pain can be different: it can be sharp, dull, or cutting. The functional activity of each of these organs could fail, causing painful sensations in the left hypochondrium. If such symptoms are present, it is first necessary to determine what is causing the pain: the pathology of the organ itself or its reaction to a systemic disease.

Pain in the left hypochondrium due to stomach diseases

The role of the stomach in work digestive tract human body cannot be underestimated, because it is through the stomach that a person receives the necessary vital energy. The occurrence of pain in the left hypochondrium may just be the first symptom that signals the malfunction of this organ. The most common stomach diseases that cause pain are ulcers, gastritis, cancer and polyps. Overeating, constipation, alcohol abuse and injury can also cause severe pain.

The nature of the pain depends on the degree of neglect of the stomach disease. For example, with gastritis, a person usually suffers from a dull and burning pain that occurs while eating, if the acidity is higher than normal, or on an empty stomach, if the acid level is too low. Aching pain, nausea and the stomach does not accept food indicate a stomach ulcer. At similar diseases Antacid medications, no-spa and a proper diet will help alleviate the patient’s suffering.

Pain in the area of ​​the left hypochondrium can also be a consequence of gastric ulcer or stomach cancer, which are very serious ailments that require medical intervention.

The cause of painful symptoms a diaphragmatic hernia located in the upper left segment of the abdomen may also develop in the left hypochondrium. The diaphragm separates the abdominal and thoracic cavities and has an opening through which the esophagus extends to the stomach. The muscles that hold the contours of the hole to the required size can be weakened, as a result of which the diameter of the hole increases, and the stomach falls out of the abdominal cavity into the chest. Hemorrhage in the chest cavity, which accompanies the process of the stomach moving from one area to another, causes pain in the left hypochondrium.

Pain in the left hypochondrium with diseases of the spleen

The source of pain in the hypochondrium could be the spleen, namely, any of its pathologies. This human organ is located very close to the surface of the body. The spleen is a kind of filter of the body, which not only cleanses the blood of bacteria and chemical “garbage”, but also participates in the “creation” of new blood cells. Pathological changes in the functioning of the organ, its inflammation and ruptures often lead to serious illnesses. One of the symptoms of spleen dysfunction is pain in the left hypochondrium, which can move towards the back. Emergence acute pain when inhaling, it indicates a rupture or injury to the spleen.

The spleen envelops the blood globule, breaks it down and sends the remains to the bone marrow, where new ones are formed blood cells. When any disease occurs, the spleen capsule increases in size, and this causes pain in the left hypochondrium.

The close location of the spleen to the surface of the body provides high probability organ rupture due to infectious mononucleosis or various injuries. Pathologies of the spleen lead it to become soft, enlarged to large sizes state. The walls of the organ are tense, which, of course, increases the likelihood of rupture of this part of the body even with slight pressure on it. There are cases where the spleen ruptured on its own. A burst organ makes itself felt by a bluish area around the navel (this indicates an accumulation of blood), as well as pain in the left hypochondrium and sensitivity when touching the area where the spleen is located.

At similar symptoms An endocrinologist will help you make the correct diagnosis

Ice, which should be applied to the left side, will help alleviate the painful sensations.

Whatever factors become the source of pain in the left hypochondrium, you cannot endure and test your willpower. Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis of the disease based on the patient’s tests and after a series of studies, so do not put off a visit to a gastroenterologist, cardiologist, or infectious disease specialist. Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe a course of treatment.

Pain in the left hypochondrium with heart disease

Sources of pain in the left hypochondrium can be coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, myocardial infarction. The heart performs in the body the most important function- this is a kind of motor that drives blood around the body around the clock. Any violation of it proper operation can lead to pain in the left hypochondrium, as well as other disorders in the circulatory system, up to fatal outcome. Doctors note several main reasons why improper functioning of the heart causes corresponding pain.

  • Cardiomyopathy. In this case, discomfort in the left side in the region of the ribs, as well as increased fatigue and “slow pulse” occur when there is heavy stress on the body as a whole.
  • Myocardial infarction can cause pain in the left hypochondrium, and the pain can “flow” from the heart to the area of ​​the shoulder blades, left arm and neck. All this is accompanied by nausea, elevated temperature, chills, excessive sweating, darkening of the eyes.
  • Cardiac ischemia causes dull burning pain in the left hypochondrium and heaviness in the chest area, increased heart rate, gagging, difficulty breathing.

If any of the listed symptoms It is necessary to contact a cardiologist as soon as possible.

Pain in the left hypochondrium due to diseases of the pancreas

The pancreas catalyzes all digestive processes in the body, and is also important body involved in metabolism.

Diseases of the pancreas can be accompanied by symptoms such as lack of appetite, vomiting, bloating, upset digestion, nausea, pain in the upper left side of the abdomen, etc.



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