“What could it mean to have stabbing pain in the lower left abdomen?”

Stabbing pain in the lower left abdomen can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from common and relatively harmless issues to more serious medical emergencies. Its important to pay attention to other symptoms you might be experiencing, as these can help narrow down the possibilities. Here are some of the potential causes Common Less Serious Causes Gas Trapped gas in the digestive tract is a very common cause of abdominal pain, including sharp or stabbing sensations. It often comes with bloating, belching, or flatulence. Constipation When stool builds up in the colon, it can cause discomfort and pain in the lower abdomen, sometimes described as stabbing. Indigestion While often felt in the upper abdomen, indigestion can sometimes cause pain in the lower abdomen, especially after eating certain foods. Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS This chronic digestive disorder can cause abdominal pain often relieved by a bowel movement, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits diarrhea, constipation, or both. Menstrual Cramps in people with uteruses Period pain can be sharp and affect the lower abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back and legs. Ovulation pain mittelschmerz can also cause sharp, temporary pain on one side. More Serious Causes requiring medical attention Diverticulitis This is a common cause of lower left abdominal pain, especially in older adults. It occurs when small pouches in the colon wall diverticula become inflamed or infected. Symptoms often include severe pain, fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. Kidney Stones Stones in the left kidney can cause sharp, intense pain in the lower left abdomen or back, which may radiate to the groin. Other symptoms include painful urination, blood in the urine, and nauseavomiting. Hernia A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, creating a bulge that can be painful, especially when straining, lifting, or coughing. Inflammatory Bowel Disease IBD This is an umbrella term for chronic conditions like Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause inflammation in the digestive tract. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea often bloody, weight loss, and fatigue. Ectopic Pregnancy in people who can become pregnant This is a medical emergency where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. It can cause severe, sudden pain, vaginal bleeding, dizziness, and shouldertip pain. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an ectopic pregnancy. Ovarian Cysts in people with ovaries Fluidfilled sacs on the ovaries can cause sharp or dull pain in the lower abdomen if they grow large, rupture, or twist. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease PID in people with uteruses An infection of the female reproductive organs, PID can cause lower abdominal pain, unusual vaginal discharge, and irregular periods. Urinary Tract Infection UTI While often causing burning with urination and frequent urges, a UTI can sometimes lead to lower abdominal pain. Appendicitis Although typically causing pain in the lower right abdomen, appendicitis pain can sometimes start near the navel and shift, or be referred to the lower left side. Its a medical emergency. Intestinal Obstruction A blockage in the intestines can prevent food or stool from passing, leading to severe abdominal pain, bloating, and inability to pass gas or stool. This requires immediate medical attention. Shingles After chickenpox, the virus can reactivate and cause a painful rash which may wrap around the abdomen and sharp nerve pain in the affected area. When to Seek Medical Attention Its crucial to consult a doctor if your stabbing pain in the lower left abdomen is Severe or worsening rapidly. Accompanied by fever, chills. Associated with persistent nausea, vomiting, or inability to keep fluids down. Present with blood in your stool or urine. Accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or signs of shock cold, clammy skin, rapid breathing. If you are pregnant and experiencing sudden or severe abdominal pain. If the pain is persistent or interferes with your daily life.

If this is an acute pain, then diverticulitis comes to mind. A physical exam and CT scan will help make that diagnosis. Get evaluated because diverticulitis can result in major complications.

Your symptoms may be from multiple different causes. Please visit a physician right away. Hope you’ve seen someone already and are better now.

This could be from multiple issues (GI and non- GI). You definitely need to see a doctor to ask you questions to determine if it’s a GI issue (like possibly diverticulitis) or possibly musculoskeletal problem since it gets worse with movement.

Left lower abdominal discomfort can come from any organ contained there, or from anywhere else in the abdomen, including the appendix. Appendicitis is probably one of the biggest diagnoses to miss; it is also known as "the great pretender" because it can mimic everything else.

Other diagnoses include everything from muscle pull to intestinal obstruction, pancreas or spleen injury, uterine cramping, ovarian cyst, tubal pregnancy, and growths. But the diagnosis depends on your history, and this is one place the physical exam is so important.

Whoever examines you can determine a diagnosis and/or refer you for further testing (like blood work or an ultrasound) to help get it. Hope it goes well!

It means that you need a physical exam and maybe some lab tests.