Pain in the upper left side of the abdomen, beneath the ribs, can have many possible causes. Some are relatively minor, such as trapped gas or indigestion, while others may require prompt medical attention.
Because several organs are located in or near this area, persistent, severe or unexplained pain should not simply be repeatedly masked with painkillers without determining its cause.
Stomach — Gastritis or Peptic Ulcer
Problems involving the stomach are among the possible causes of upper abdominal discomfort.
Gastritis or a peptic ulcer may cause burning, aching or gnawing pain. Symptoms can sometimes be related to meals and may be accompanied by nausea, bloating, indigestion or heartburn.
Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools requires urgent medical attention.
Spleen
The spleen is located in the upper left abdomen, behind the ribs.
An enlarged spleen can cause discomfort or a feeling of fullness in this area. More seriously, a ruptured spleen, particularly following an injury, can cause sudden severe pain and internal bleeding and is a medical emergency.
Pancreas — Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back.
Acute pancreatitis may also cause nausea, vomiting, fever and abdominal tenderness. Severe or persistent symptoms require prompt medical assessment.
Intestines
Trapped gas, constipation and certain intestinal disorders can also produce cramping or discomfort in the upper left abdomen.
More serious conditions, including intestinal obstruction, may cause severe abdominal pain, swelling, vomiting and an inability to pass stool or gas and require urgent treatment.
Heart Problems Can Sometimes Feel Like Abdominal Pain
Although heart attack symptoms commonly include chest pressure or discomfort, some people can experience less typical symptoms such as upper abdominal discomfort, nausea, shortness of breath or sweating.
This is particularly important when abdominal discomfort occurs together with chest pressure or pain spreading to the arm, shoulder, back, neck or jaw.
When Is Emergency Medical Care Needed?
Seek emergency medical assistance if upper-left abdominal pain is sudden or severe, particularly if it is accompanied by shortness of breath, fainting or severe weakness, cold sweating, persistent vomiting, chest pressure, signs of internal bleeding, or pain spreading to the arm, shoulder, back, neck or jaw.
Pain following a significant abdominal injury also requires prompt assessment.
Upper-left abdominal pain has many possible explanations, and the location of pain alone cannot establish a diagnosis. Persistent or recurring symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
This material is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
