Lower Left Pain

I'm a 27 year old male and two days ago I noticed a pain in my lower left abdominal area.  The pain has become more noticable today, and it hurt when I press down on it.  Movement (standing up and sitting down suddenly) hurts.  I do not feel nauseas, but I have been burping a lot.  Is this constipation?  Will a laxative get rid of this problem, or should I seek medical attention?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Constipation, colitis, diverticulitis, or gastroenteritis are a few of the diseases that can lead to this symptom.

An abdominal plain film can be considered as an initial test.  Further evaluation can include a CT scan and/or lower endoscopy - such as a colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy.  

If the burping continues, you can consider evaluation of the upper GI tract - preferably with an upper GI series or upper endoscopy.  

The treatment would depend on what was found during the testing period.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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