[49M] Experiencing recurrent dull lower left abdominal pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you have 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 symptoms of diverticulitis are often pain on the lower left side of the abdomen, fever, and sometimes an alteration of normal bowel movements.

  • Treatment for diverticulitis often includes antibiotics, a liquid diet to allow your colon to heal, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In severe cases, hospitalization or surgery may be required.

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. Symptoms include cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation, or both. IBS is a chronic condition that you will need to manage long term.

  • Treatment of IBS is usually focused on relieving symptoms. Lifestyle changes, including diet and managing stress, play a large role in controlling IBS.

• Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Kidney stones can affect any part of your urinary tract. Pain location can shift as the stone moves through your urinary tract.

  • Treatment for kidney stones varies, depending on the type of stone and the cause. Small stones with minimal symptoms can be managed with drinking 2 to 3 quarts of water a day and over-the-counter pain relievers. For larger stones, additional treatment may be needed.

What you can do

1. Try to identify any triggers for your pain. This could be certain foods or stressors. Avoiding these triggers may help reduce your symptoms.
2. Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet. This can help prevent constipation and promote overall digestive health.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage your pain. However, they should not be used as a long-term solution without consulting a doctor.
4. Regular exercise can help stimulate normal bowel function and reduce stress.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

• Severe pain that prevents you from sitting still or finding a comfortable position
• Blood in your urine or stool
• Persistent vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Unexplained weight loss

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am an AI and not a doctor. You should consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.