Why does my left stomach hurt while running

Left abdominal pain during running may be related to temporary ischemia, gastrointestinal spasms, diaphragmatic fatigue, and other factors related to exercise. It usually does not require special treatment and can be relieved by adjusting breathing and running posture. If the pain persists or worsens, one should be alert to pathological factors such as gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome.

1. Exercise related transient ischemia

During intense running, blood is preferentially supplied to the lower limb muscles, which may lead to temporary insufficient blood supply to the intestines and cause colic. Manifested as needle like pain in the left abdomen, which can disappear on its own after slowing down or stopping exercise for a few minutes. It is recommended to warm up thoroughly before running, avoid exercising immediately after meals, and use abdominal breathing to increase oxygen supply.

2. Gastrointestinal Spasms

Smooth muscle spasms may occur when the gastrointestinal tract is stimulated by vibrations or when cold air is inhaled during running. The pain presents as paroxysmal colic, possibly accompanied by increased bowel sounds. Avoid eating high fiber foods 2 hours before exercise, and drinking a small amount of warm water during the process can help alleviate symptoms. Repeated episodes require investigation of digestive problems such as lactose intolerance.

3. Diaphragmatic fatigue

Disruption of respiratory rhythm can lead to excessive contraction of the diaphragm, resulting in referred pain, which is mostly located in the left costal area. Maintaining a stable rhythm of three-step breathing, three-step inhaling, and strengthening core muscle training can prevent it. Applying hot compress to the painful area after exercise can accelerate recovery.

4. Gastritis

Patients with chronic gastritis may experience burning pain in the upper left abdomen due to gastric acid reflux during running, which can irritate the mucosa. Pain may be accompanied by acid reflux and belching, and symptoms worsen during fasting exercise. Follow medical advice to use medications such as omeprazole and magnesium aluminum carbonate, and avoid intake of caffeine and acidic foods.

5. Irritable bowel syndrome [SEP]: Under stress, intestinal sensitivity increases, and running vibrations may induce left lower abdominal pain or defecation. The typical feature is the relief of pain after defecation. It is recommended to record the relationship between diet and symptoms, and if necessary, use povidone bromide to regulate intestinal function, in conjunction with low FODMAP diet management.

If you experience abdominal pain while running, you should stop exercising first, press the painful area, and adjust your breathing. Pay attention to strengthening abdominal muscle exercise in daily life, do dynamic stretching before running, and avoid high-fat and high sugar diets. If the pain recurs and accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss and bloody stools, timely gastrointestinal endoscopy should be performed to screen for organic diseases. Maintaining regular exercise habits can help enhance the adaptability of internal organs. It is recommended to gradually increase the amount of exercise starting from low-intensity interval running.