There are certain medical conditions that can cause left back pain and nausea, along with other symptoms. Enlisted in this article are some of the causes for these symptoms.

Back pain is one of the common health complaints, that can be caused by numerous medical conditions; ranging from mild to severe, and even life-threatening ones. The underlying cause may vary according to the nature, severity, and location of pain. Even additional symptoms are considered, while diagnosing the condition. The nature of back pain may vary from one person to another, and is often described as dull and constant, sharp, stabbing, throbbing, burning, etc. It can be persistent or intermittent. While generalized back pain is very common, some people experience pain in specific areas. In some cases, back pain may radiate to other parts, like the legs. Sometimes, pain may radiate to the back, from other parts.

There are certain factors that may worsen the pain; and they include strenuous physical activities, prolonged sitting, and even rest. In some cases, back pain may get alleviated with rest or physical activities. Some people experience severe back pain during nighttime, whereas some others complain of early morning pain. In short, there are various factors that have to be considered, while determining the underlying cause for back pain.

Back Pain and Nausea

Back pain can be caused by specific medical conditions of the back, like a herniated disk. Pain may radiate from other parts to the back. Diseases affecting other parts may cause stress on the spine and associated structures, thereby causing back pain. So, there are numerous causes for back pain. It is said that, back pain on the left side is more common, as compared to right-sided back pain. Along with nausea, left-sided back pain could be an indication of different medical conditions.

In case of back injuries that damage nerves connected to the stomach, the affected person experiences both back pain as well as nausea. The same happens in case of damage to the nerves that are connected to the brain's center for regulating balance. Certain medical conditions cause inflammation of the organs in the abdomen and pelvis, thereby exerting pressure on the back as well as the stomach. They are also associated with both the symptoms. Stress is another condition that is linked to back pain and nausea. Let us take a look at the possible causes of back pain, along with nausea.

Causes of Left Back Pain and Nausea
Conditions Affecting the Back

Spinal tumor is a condition that can cause pain in the back, along with nausea, loss of appetite, pain and numbness in the arms and legs, etc. Vertebral osteoarthritis is also associated with lower back pain and nausea. This medical condition may also cause inflammation and redness of the affected area, and fever. In some cases, spinal osteomyelitis may cause back pain and nausea. Apart from these medical conditions, certain medicines that are used for treating back problems, may also cause nausea. Opioids and antidepressants used for treating medical conditions, like herniated disk, may cause side effects, like nausea.

Gastrointestinal Problems

• Constipation
• Gastroenteritis
• Diverticulitis
• Volvulus
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Colorectal cancer
• Chronic pancreatitis

Urological Problems

• Kidney stones
• Urinary tract infection
• Cystitis
• Kidney cyst
• Urethritis

Gynecological Conditions

• Endometriosis
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Implantation bleeding
• Pregnancy
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Ovarian cyst or tumor
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Ovarian vein thrombosis

Other Causes

• Hyperparathyroidism
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Certain types of cancer

Mentioned above are some of the medical conditions that can cause symptoms, like left-sided back pain and nausea. In general, these symptoms are mainly caused by diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys, and gynecological conditions. Along with back pain and nausea, a urinary tract infection may also cause burning sensation while urinating, urge to urinate frequently, cramps, and a bloated abdomen. As far as cancer is concerned, left back pain and nausea are mainly associated with pancreatic, ovarian, and colon cancer.

It has to be noted that the back pain may not always be concentrated on the left side. However, in some cases, like cysts in the left ovary or left kidney; left-sided back pain may be experienced. Severe lower left back pain and vomiting, along with nausea may indicate a serious condition. While mild symptoms may not be a cause of concern; persistent, recurrent, and severe ones need immediate medical attention. It is advisable to consult your health care provider, even if the symptoms are mild. Treatment for these symptoms vary with the underlying cause.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.