Lower Back and Abdominal Pain in Women
Abdominal pain typically arises in the area between the chest and the pelvis, manifesting as cramping, intermittent, or sharp pain. This discomfort is often linked to issues with organs located in the abdomen, which can include the intestines, kidneys, appendix, spleen, stomach, gallbladder, liver, pancreas, and reproductive organs, as well as the muscles, bones, and blood vessels. On the other hand, lower back pain occurs in the region beneath the rib cage, commonly referred to as the lumbar region.
Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain in Women
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain can stem from various causes, which can be challenging to categorize. Issues in the gastrointestinal, urinary, and reproductive systems can lead to this type of pain. Below are some of the most common causes of lower abdominal pain in women:
- Abdominal gas
Gas can lead to sharp abdominal pain, accompanied by a sensation of tightness and bloating.
- Menstrual pain (Dysmenorrhea)
The menstrual cycle can cause lower abdominal pain, along with other reproductive issues such as dyspareunia (pain during intercourse).
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
This condition results from an infection affecting reproductive organs, usually stemming from sexually transmitted infections.
- Endometriosis
Endometriosis involves the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside of the uterus, leading to acute or chronic pain.
- Ectopic pregnancy
This type of pain occurs suddenly and is caused by a fertilized egg implanting outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube.
- Uterine fibroids
Fibroids are benign tumors that can develop in the uterus.
- Ruptured ovarian cyst
This condition is common among women of reproductive age and is characterized by sudden, sharp pain following sexual intercourse or strenuous activity. Ovarian cysts can also cause lower abdominal pain on their own.
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
UTIs can result in lower abdominal pain along with a burning sensation during urination, increased frequency of urination, cloudy urine, and foul odor.
- Kidney stones
Pain from kidney stones often radiates to the lower back as well.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
IBS is characterized by abnormal contractions of the colon muscles, leading to cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, and alternating episodes of diarrhea and constipation.
- Constipation and diarrhea
Pain related to constipation or diarrhea may feel like cramping or spasms that come and go in the abdominal area.
- Ulcer
Stomach ulcers can cause persistent severe abdominal pain, as well as bloating, indigestion, and weight loss.
- Crohn’s disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain along with diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fever.
- Ulcerative colitis
This condition is similar to Crohn’s disease but affects only the colon.
- Celiac disease
Also known as gluten intolerance, celiac disease represents an adverse reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat and barley, resulting in abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, weight loss, and fatigue, among other symptoms.
Causes of Lower Back Pain in Women
Lower back pain (Lumbago) is a common issue that leads many to seek medical advice. Most cases arise from injuries or trauma and are notably prevalent among individuals aged 30 to 50. This pain can result from various problems affecting the lumbar spine, ligaments surrounding the spinal cord, nerves, muscles, or internal organs of the pelvis and abdomen.
Lower back pain can last for several days or weeks, classified as acute back pain, while chronic back pain may persist for several months. Here are some key causes of lower back pain, including conditions specific to women:
- Strain
Muscles and ligaments can be strained due to sudden movements or improper body posture while lifting heavy objects.
- Herniated disc
Sudden lifting or improper bending can lead to a herniated disc, which can press on spinal nerves or the spinal cord, causing persistent lower back pain beyond the typical 72 hours associated with muscle strain.
- Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when a herniated disc compresses the sciatic nerve, connecting the spinal cord to the legs, causing pain that radiates down to the legs and feet.
- Kidney problems
Such issues may include conditions like kidney stones, infections, or hematomas.
- Pregnancy
Pregnancy often results in lower back pain due to pressure from the growing fetus on the spine, along with hormonal changes, including increased estrogen levels.
- Ovarian issues
This category includes ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids.
- Spinal stenosis
A narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on spinal nerves and the spinal cord, leading to lower back pain, cramps, numbness, and weakness, with symptoms often worsening when standing or walking.
- Bone and joint problems
This includes conditions such as arthritis, spondylitis, and fractures of the bones.
Video on Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain
Lower abdominal pain is one of the most common health issues. What are its causes?!