Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Pain On Left Side Of Abdomen?
Question: I am having back pain above the waist, left of my spine that is quite severe and barely responds to Vicodin for over a week. A couple of days ago the pain included the area under my left rib cage. Through the night, I awaken in pain and reach for pain killers. Might this mean a problem with my pancreas?
Brief Answer:
Ultrasound abdomen and serum tests required
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query on HealthcareMagic.
Pain on left side of abdomen can be due to pancreatic pain.
However, a couple of investigations are required before a diagnosis can be made.
An ultrasound abdomen, serum tests for pancreatic enzymes - amylase and lipase are required to prove the pancreatic origin of pain.
However, left sided abdominal pain can be due to splenic pathology, pleural pathology or musculoskeletal pathology.
I suggest you to consult your physician for clinical assessment to find out the cause of left abdominal pain.
If you have more queries, I will glad to answer.
Dr Shailja P Wahal
Ultrasound abdomen and serum tests required
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query on HealthcareMagic.
Pain on left side of abdomen can be due to pancreatic pain.
However, a couple of investigations are required before a diagnosis can be made.
An ultrasound abdomen, serum tests for pancreatic enzymes - amylase and lipase are required to prove the pancreatic origin of pain.
However, left sided abdominal pain can be due to splenic pathology, pleural pathology or musculoskeletal pathology.
I suggest you to consult your physician for clinical assessment to find out the cause of left abdominal pain.
If you have more queries, I will glad to answer.
Dr Shailja P Wahal
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
