[28F] Experiencing sharp localized pain in lower left abdomen

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Diverticulitis: This is an inflammation or infection of small pouches called diverticula that develop along the walls of the intestines. The formation of these pouches is known as diverticulosis. The sharp pain in the lower left abdomen is a common symptom of diverticulitis.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to treat the infection, a temporary liquid diet to allow your colon to heal, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

• Ovarian Cyst: This is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away without treatment in a few months. However, a large or persistent ovarian cyst, or one that is causing symptoms, might need to be surgically removed.

  • Treatment can range from monitoring the cyst to surgical removal. It depends on the size, what it looks like on ultrasound, whether it's causing symptoms, and whether you've been through menopause.

• Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the lining of the intestines caused by a virus, bacteria or parasites. Viral gastroenteritis is the second most common illness in the U.S. It causes diarrhea and vomiting.

  • Treatment usually involves replacing lost fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration. In some cases, over-the-counter medicines may help relieve your symptoms.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Signs and symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both.

  • Treatment of IBS is aimed at relieving symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible. Mild signs and symptoms can often be controlled by managing stress and by making changes in your diet and lifestyle.

Please remember that this is not an exhaustive list and other conditions could also explain your symptoms.

What you can do

Given the duration and specific location of your pain, it's important to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and possibly order tests such as blood tests, urine tests, or imaging studies to help determine the cause of your pain.

In the meantime, you can:

1. Try to rest and avoid activities that make your pain worse.
2. Stay hydrated, especially if you're feeling gassy.
3. Avoid foods that make your symptoms worse.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool or dark, tarry stools
• High fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep down fluids
• Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, decreased urination, or dizziness when standing

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.