What Is Abdominal Pain?

Abdominal pain is the term used for discomfort or unpleasant feelings you might have in your stomach area. Nearly everyone will experience it at some point.

In most cases, the pain isn’t serious and can be easily identified and treated by a healthcare provider. However, sometimes it can be a sign of a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Pain on the Left Side of the Abdomen

Lower Left Abdomen

• Diverticulitis: Inflamed intestinal pouches cause sharp pain.
• IBS: Can also cause cramping or discomfort.

Upper Left Abdomen
Could be from organs like the pancreas, spleen, stomach, or kidneys. Possible causes include:

• Pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer
• Gastritis, ulcers, or bile reflux
• Stomach cancer
• Kidney stones or infections

Pain That Feels Abdominal but isn’t
Some chest issues can mimic upper left stomach pain:

• Heartburn, angina, or even a heart attack
• Pericarditis, pneumonia, or pulmonary embolism

Pain on the Right Side of the Abdomen