Pain on the Left Side
Pain in the lower left abdomen is often linked to diverticulitis, an inflammation of small pouches in the colon. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can also cause pain here.
Upper left abdominal pain may stem from:
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Pancreatitis, gastritis, or stomach ulcers
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Enlarged spleen
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Kidney infection or stones
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Heart-related issues like angina, pericarditis, or heart attack
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Lung problems like pneumonia or pleurisy
Pain on the Right Side
Lower right abdominal pain could indicate appendicitis. Upper right pain might involve the:
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Liver (e.g., hepatitis or liver cancer)
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Gallbladder (e.g., gallstones or cholecystitis)
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Right kidney
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Duodenal ulcer or bowel obstruction
When to See a Doctor
Call a doctor if pain is severe, persistent, or returns often—especially with symptoms like:
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Vomiting, dehydration, blood in stool or vomit
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Trouble breathing or yellow skin
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Pregnancy or unexplained weight loss
Seek emergency care if symptoms are sudden and intense.
