Differential Diagnosis for Left Side Abdominal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Diverticulitis: This condition is a common cause of left lower quadrant abdominal pain, especially in older adults. It occurs when diverticula in the colon become inflamed, leading to pain, tenderness, and potentially serious complications if not treated.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Constipation: Constipation can cause abdominal pain on the left side due to the buildup of stool in the descending colon.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause recurring abdominal pain, often on the left side, accompanied by changes in bowel movements.
- Kidney Stone: A kidney stone in the left ureter can cause severe, sharp pain on the left side of the abdomen.
- Ovarian Cyst (in females): An ovarian cyst can cause pain on the left side of the abdomen if it ruptures or becomes twisted.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy (in females): Although less common, an ectopic pregnancy can cause severe abdominal pain on one side and is a medical emergency.
- Appendicitis (if pain has shifted): While appendicitis typically causes pain on the right side, in some cases, the pain can start or shift to the left side, especially if the appendix is located in an unusual position.
- Spleen Rupture: A ruptured spleen can cause severe left upper quadrant pain and is a life-threatening condition.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: An aneurysm in the abdominal aorta can cause severe abdominal pain, often on the left side, and is a medical emergency.
Rare Diagnoses
- Splenic Infarction: A blockage of the blood supply to the spleen can cause left upper quadrant pain.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain, often radiating to the back, and can be a rare cause of left-sided pain if the tail of the pancreas is involved.
- Gastrointestinal Lymphoma: A rare type of cancer that can cause abdominal pain, including on the left side, due to the involvement of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Intestinal Ischemia: Reduced blood flow to the intestines can cause severe abdominal pain, which may be localized to the left side depending on the area affected.