What Could Cause Upper Left Abdominal Pain That Comes and Goes?

The upper left side of your abdomen can hurt for several reasons that come and go. One possibility is epiploic appendagitis, which occurs when small, fat-filled sacs near your colon become inflamed. This usually causes sudden, sharp pain that fades and returns. Another potential cause is diverticulitis, which is when small pouches in the wall of the colon become irritated or infected, leading to intermittent pain. In rare cases, issues like appendicitis might present on the left side if the intestines are arranged in an unusual way. Other reasons could include problems with the spleen or even stomach-related issues that cause discomfort in that area. Because many different conditions can cause upper left abdominal pain, doctors usually ask questions about your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and may order imaging tests to narrow down the exact cause. If your pain continues or worsens, it is important to see a healthcare provider to determine the cause and get the right treatment.