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Published on: 11/28/2025

Can left-sided pain under the ribs be linked to spleen or kidney problems?

Yes, pain on the left side under the ribs can be related to problems with the spleen or kidneys, such as infarctions or torsion.

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Explanation

Pain on the left side under the ribs can indeed be linked to issues with the spleen or kidneys. Splenic Problems: The spleen can sometimes have an accessory (extra) part that can twist, leading to pain. This is known as torsion of an accessory spleen, which can cause acute pain as noted in the medical literature. Kidney Problems: Kidney issues like infarctions, which are blockages that cut off blood flow, can also cause pain in this area. Infarctions can affect both the spleen and kidneys, often linked to conditions like atrial fibrillation, which is a type of irregular heartbeat.

Key Points:

  1. Accessory Spleen Torsion: This condition can cause sudden pain due to twisting of an extra spleen part.
  2. Infarctions: These occur when blood supply is blocked, affecting the spleen or kidneys and causing pain.

If you experience such pain, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

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