Persistent or sharp pain in the lower left side of the abdomen is one of the most common reasons patients visit Sahara West Urgent Care. While often related to minor digestive issues, localized pain in the “Lower Left Quadrant” (LLQ) can sometimes signal an acute condition like Diverticulitis or kidney stones.
Save My Spot / Check Wait Times
What is in the Lower Left Abdomen?
To understand the source of your pain, it helps to know which organs are located in this region. The lower left quadrant primarily houses:
-
-
The Descending and Sigmoid Colon: The final parts of your large intestine.
-
The Left Ureter: The tube connecting the left kidney to the bladder.
-
The Left Ovary and Fallopian Tube: (In biological females).
-
The Left Iliac Artery: A major blood vessel supplying the leg.
-
5 Common Causes of Lower Left Abdominal Pain
Our medical team at Sahara West frequently diagnoses the following conditions in patients presenting with left-side discomfort:
1. Diverticulitis (Most Common)
Diverticulitis occurs when small pouches in the colon wall become inflamed or infected. This typically causes a steady, severe pain that stays in the lower left side.
-
Signs: Fever, nausea, and a “tender to the touch” abdomen.
2. Trapped Gas (Splenic Flexure Syndrome)
Gas can become trapped in the turn of the colon (the splenic flexure) under the ribs or in the lower sigmoid colon. This often feels like a sharp, stabbing pain that may move or dissipate after a bowel movement.
3. Kidney Stones or Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
If a stone is passing through the left ureter, it causes intense, cramping pain that often radiates toward the groin or the back. * Sahara West Advantage: We provide on-site urinalysis to check for blood or infection immediately.
4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Constipation
Chronic inflammation or stool backup in the sigmoid colon can cause localized cramping and pressure.
5. Ovarian Cysts or Endometriosis (Females)
Women may experience sharp or dull pain due to cysts on the left ovary. If the pain is sudden and severe, it may indicate ovarian torsion, which requires immediate evaluation.
Triage Guide: Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room
Use this guide to determine the level of care you need for your abdominal pain.
Why Choose Sahara West Urgent Care in Las Vegas?
Unlike a general information blog, we provide real-world medical diagnostics at our West Sahara Avenue location. We serve patients from Summerlin, Spring Valley, and the greater Las Vegas area.
-
On-Site Digital X-Rays: Quickly rule out certain types of bowel obstructions or kidney stones.
-
Point-of-Care Lab Testing: We perform blood work and urinalysis on-site for faster results.
-
No Long ER Waits: Most patients are evaluated and treated in a fraction of the time it takes at a hospital emergency department.
-
Expert Medical Staff: All content and care are overseen by board-certified providers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does it mean if my lower left side hurts when I press it?
Tenderness to the touch (rebound tenderness) in the lower left side is a significant clinical sign often associated with Diverticulitis. You should be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out infection or perforation.
Can stress cause left-side stomach pain?
Yes. Stress can trigger spasms in the colon, particularly for those with IBS. However, “stress” should only be concluded as the cause after a physical exam has ruled out structural issues.
When should I worry about left-side pain?
Seek medical attention if the pain is accompanied by fever, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or if the pain is so severe that you cannot find a comfortable sitting or lying position.
Don’t wait for the pain to worsen.
Visit Sahara West Urgent Care at 6125 W. Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89146. We are open [9AM to 3PM] for walk-in patients.
