When Is Sharp Pain in the Lower Left Abdomen in Females a Warning Sign?

Sharp pain in the lower left abdomen can be a concerning symptom, as it may indicate several underlying medical conditions. If you’re experiencing this type of pain, it’s important to seek timely medical attention to determine the cause and receive appropriate care. At Physicians Now Urgent Care, we specialize in assessing and treating abdominal pain with quick, compassionate care.

Stress and anxiety can contribute to abdominal pain in females through several mechanisms. When a person experiences stress or anxiety, the body activates the “fight or flight” response, triggering the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can affect the digestive system by increasing gut sensitivity, altering digestion, and promoting muscle contractions in the intestines. This can lead to symptoms such as cramping, bloating, and sharp pain in the abdomen.

Additionally, stress and anxiety can exacerbate existing gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is known to cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Stress can also lead to behaviors like overeating, poor eating choices, or reduced physical activity, which can further worsen abdominal pain. In some cases, ongoing stress and anxiety may lead to a cycle of chronic pain, where the abdominal discomfort intensifies the emotional distress, creating a feedback loop. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and therapy can help alleviate abdominal pain related to anxiety.

Our experienced providers at Physicians Now Urgent Care will take a thorough history, perform a physical exam, and order any necessary tests to determine the cause of your pain and recommend the right treatment.

Sharp pain in the lower left abdomen in females can have a variety of causes, many of which may require prompt medical attention. At Physicians Now Urgent Care, we specialise in quickly evaluating and treating these types of concerns to help you get the appropriate care when you need it most. Possible causes of sharp pain in the lower left abdomen in females include:

• Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon.

• Ovarian cysts: Fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can cause pain if they rupture or become twisted.

• Endometriosis: Tissue that resembles the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to pain.

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): An infection of the reproductive organs, often due to sexually transmitted infections.

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A gastrointestinal disorder that can cause cramping and discomfort.

• Constipation: Difficulty passing stools can lead to bloating and sharp abdominal pain.

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Infections in the urinary tract can cause pain, often accompanied by painful urination.

• Gas or bloating: Excess gas in the intestines can cause temporary sharp pain and discomfort.

• Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pelvic pain, especially if they press on surrounding organs.

If sharp pain in the lower left abdomen persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, seeking medical evaluation is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. At Physicians Now Urgent Care in Rockville, MD, our experienced medical team, led by Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, is dedicated to providing prompt and effective care to address your symptoms. We offer thorough assessments and tailored treatment plans to help you find relief and improve your health.

At Physicians Now Urgent Care, we frequently see patients with sharp pain in the lower left abdomen, especially among women. Digestive issues can lead to sharp pain in the lower left abdomen in females. Conditions such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and diverticulitis are common causes. IBS causes cramping and discomfort due to heightened sensitivity of the intestines, often resulting in sharp pain in the lower abdomen. Diverticulitis, which involves inflammation of small pouches in the colon, typically causes sudden, intense pain on the left side. These digestive conditions are often accompanied by symptoms like bloating, changes in bowel movements, and nausea.

Additionally, gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) or food intolerances can contribute to abdominal pain. Sharp pain can also occur due to gas buildup or indigestion, leading to temporary discomfort in the lower left abdomen. If the pain persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Our skilled providers at Physicians Now Urgent Care are ready to swiftly diagnose and treat a wide range of causes for abdominal pain, ensuring you get the right care when you need it most.

At Physicians Now Urgent Care, we understand that sharp lower left abdominal pain in females can be alarming—especially when accompanied by other symptoms. Our experienced medical team is here to help evaluate and treat a wide range of urgent health concerns, including abdominal pain and related conditions. Here are other symptoms that should accompany sharp lower left abdominal pain in females and warrant concern:

• Persistent or worsening pain over time

• Fever or chills

• Nausea or vomiting

• Unexplained weight loss

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge

• Painful urination or blood in urine

• Difficulty passing stool or blood in stool

• Abdominal bloating or distension

• Pain during intercourse

• Changes in the menstrual cycle or abnormal cramping

At Physicians Now Urgent Care, your health and safety are our top priorities. If you experience any of these symptoms, visit our clinic for a thorough assessment and timely treatment—you don’t need an appointment, and our caring professionals are ready to help you feel better, fast.

Dr. Chinedum Olisemeka, DO, at Physicians Now Urgent Care in Rockville, MD, is a trusted healthcare provider with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating various causes of lower left abdominal pain in females. His compassionate, patient-centered approach ensures that every patient receives thorough evaluations and personalized care. Dr. Olisemeka’s expertise in abdominal health, combined with his commitment to accurate diagnoses, allows him to effectively manage conditions ranging from gastrointestinal issues to gynecological concerns, offering timely and effective solutions for relief.

Patients seeking care from Dr. Olisemeka benefit from his dedication to providing high-quality, evidence-based treatment options. He uses advanced diagnostic tools and takes the time to listen to his patients’ symptoms, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of their condition. With his expertise and attention to detail, Dr. Olisemeka helps guide his patients toward the most appropriate treatment plans, providing relief and peace of mind for those experiencing lower left abdominal pain.

Contact us today for more information. Our urgent care is conveniently located at 15215 Shady Grove Rd., Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850. We serve patients from Rockville MD, Travilah MD, Lone Oak MD, Colesville Park MD, Redland MD, Darnestown MD, Anscroft MD, and Wheaton-Glenmont MD.