10 Common Causes of Pain In Lower Left Quadrant

By shirley

Reviewed: dr. stavarache

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. Willacy, Dr Hayley. 'Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Left Lower Quadrant: Causes & Treatment.' Patient.info, 31 Mar. 2021, patient.info/signs-symptoms/left-lower-quadrant-pain#nav-2
• 2. 'Diverticulitis.' Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 7 May 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diverticulitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371758
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The lower left quadrant is the lower-left section of the torso. It includes the small bowel, parts of the large bowel, the rectum and the left ureter, ovary and fallopian tube in women. Disorders affecting any of these components may cause pain in the lower left quadrant.

To determine the cause of pain, a physician conducts an examination, concentrating on the painful area. They may take urine and blood samples for laboratory analysis and order imaging tests, a sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy or barium enema. The test results help the doctor diagnose the cause of the pain and what's necessary to address it.¹Willacy, Dr Hayley. ‘Left Lower Abdominal Pain: Left Lower Quadrant: Causes & Treatment.’ Patient.info, 31 Mar. 2021, patient.info/signs-symptoms/left-lower-quadrant-pain#nav-2

Diverticulitis

Small bulging pouches, called diverticula, may form in the lining of the digestive system, especially in the lower part of the colon, and diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected. This may cause pain, usually in the lower-left side of the abdomen, which may be continuous and last for days. Other symptoms may include fever, constipation or diarrhea, and nausea and vomiting.

Doctors may prescribe rest, dietary modifications and antibiotics to help address diverticulitis. In severe or recurrent cases, surgery may be required. Surgery may also be needed if complications develop, such as an abscess, a fistula or blockage.²‘Diverticulitis.’ Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 7 May 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diverticulitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371758