<prompt> If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patients description.I have a pain in the left side of my stomach, just to the left of my belly button, that has been there for a week and wont seem to go away. It seems like a pain closer to the surface of my skin rather than deeper in closer to my back. It hurts more when I strain, cough or laugh.  <response>: Hi. Thanks for your query and an elucidated history. It is possible that the rectus muscle near the belly button has gone into tear or hematoma formation or into a stage of fibrosis. Another possibility is had a small hernia. High resolution ultrasonography can detect the exact cause and clinical examination by a Surgeon can give you the most probable or proper diagnosis. You will have to get treated according to these findings. IF hematoma - aspirate. If swelling - anti-inflammatory medicines. If Hernia - get operated. Laxative to avoid straining. Cough syrups to suppress the cough. Bed rest till diagnosis is confirmed. All the best 