Published on: 7/22/2025
What Causes Sharp, Twisting Upper Left Abdominal Pain?
20s, Male
The pain in my upper left abdomen feels almost like a cramp but more like someone is grabbing and twisting my insides. It gets worse when I exhale so I have to focus on breathing in more than breathing out. It happens acutely. It’s in episodes though not constant.
Dr. Taylor’s Response
I understand you're experiencing episodes of sharp pain in your upper left abdomen that worsen with exhalation. This sounds uncomfortable and concerning.
Given the location and nature of your pain, I recommend seeing a gastroenterologist. These specialists focus on digestive system issues and are well-equipped to evaluate abdominal pain. However, your primary care physician could also be a good starting point, as they can perform an initial assessment and refer you to a specialist if needed.
The symptoms you describe could potentially be related to various conditions, including:
- Gastritis or ulcers
- Splenic issues
- Pancreatitis
- Diaphragmatic irritation
- Intestinal problems
Given that the pain occurs in episodes and affects your breathing, I encourage you not to wait too long before seeking medical attention. If you experience severe, persistent pain, fever, or difficulty breathing, please seek immediate medical care.
In the meantime, try to avoid foods that seem to trigger the pain and keep a symptom diary to share with your doctor.
Remember, only a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis after a proper examination. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon.
Tell your friends about us.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.