According to the DoctorsLounge website, left upper quadrant pain is often associated with diseases of the spleen and colon. However, other areas of the body, including the chest, can cause pain in this part of the abdomen too. Left upper quadrant abdominal pain may signal a serious underlying health problem that requires immediate medical attention and intervention.
Angina
Angina is heart-related pain that can radiate to the left upper abdominal quadrant under the ribs. Angina -- a symptom of coronary heart disease -- occurs when the heart muscle receives insufficient blood flow. Coronary artery disease is caused by a build-up of plaque within the arteries that transport blood to the heart. Angina-related pain or discomfort may feel like squeezing, pressure, heaviness or tightness in the chest. Other common signs and symptoms associated with angina include left upper quadrant abdominal pain, pain in the neck, jaw, arms, shoulders or back, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, anxiety, sweating and dizziness. Numerous factors may increase the risk for angina, including smoking tobacco, elevated blood pressure, a personal or family history of heart disease, obesity, stress and certain medical conditions such as diabetes.
Pleurisy
Pleurisy, especially pleurisy of the lower lobe of the left lung, can cause left upper quadrant abdominal pain. Pleurisy is inflammation of the lining of the lungs and chest or pleura. Pleurisy usually causes sharp pain when a person takes a breath or coughs. Infections -- pneumonia or tuberculosis -- are among the most common causes of pleurisy. Viral infections can also cause pleurisy, as can asbestos-related disease, certain cancers, chest trauma, pulmonary embolus and rheumatic diseases. Possible signs and symptoms associated with pleurisy include chest pain that is worse with breathing, coughing, sneezing or moving, left upper quadrant abdominal pain, shortness of breath, dry cough and fever or chills. According to MedlinePlus, recovery from pleurisy depends on what is causing the condition.
Ruptured Spleen
A ruptured spleen is a life-threatening cause of left upper quadrant abdominal pain. The spleen is located on the left side of the abdomen, just beneath the rib cage. The spleen wards off infection, filters metabolic waste products and produces red and white blood cells. Because of its location, the spleen is susceptible to injury. Blunt-force trauma to the spleen, which can rupture the spleen, may be caused by a motor vehicle accident, physical assault or a sports-related injury. Common signs and symptoms associated with a ruptured spleen include pain and tenderness in the left upper abdominal quadrant. Because a ruptured spleen can cause extensive internal bleeding, a person with this condition may also experience reduced blood pressure, lightheadedness and confusion. MayoClinic.com states that a ruptured spleen is a medical emergency.
