Left Side Pain: Causes, When to See a Doctor - Medical Advice

Question
Hi Andrea i dont know if u can help, but ive got a sharpish pain in my left side just below my last rib. I am faily healthy but do drink a lot of alcohol. Have had the pain for about 2 days now with no other symtoms. Is this in the apendix region? should i go to the doc? Cheers
R. Quinn

Answer
Dear Richard,

Hi back to you <smile>

I wish I could tell you what is wrong.  Let me start off by saying you need to contact your physician.  This kind of problem is best taken care of with a visual and hands-on exam, and probably some outpatient testing.  

Really, the main things in the left upper quadrant is the spleen and intestines.   The appendix is right lower quadrant.  I am concerned about the amount of alcohol you mention, and perhaps may be some referred pain from liver involvement.   I don't know that is what is the cause of your pain.  It might be something as minor as a pulled muscle.

Please give your physician a call.  I am sorry I cannot be more specific.  Please let me know if I can do anything else for you.

Best wishes,

Andrea