What are the common causes of lower right abdominal pain. When should you be concerned about pain in the lower right abdomen. How is appendicitis diagnosed and treated. What are the potential complications of untreated abdominal pain.

Understanding Lower Right Abdominal Anatomy

To comprehend the potential causes of lower right abdominal pain, it’s crucial to have a basic understanding of the anatomy in this region. The abdomen is divided into four quadrants, with specific organs and structures located in each area.

In the lower right quadrant, you’ll find:

• Appendix
• Ascending colon
• Part of the female reproductive organs
• Right ureter
• Blood vessels and nerves

Understanding the location of these structures can help identify potential sources of pain and guide healthcare professionals in their diagnosis.

Common Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain

Pain in the lower right abdomen can stem from various conditions, ranging from mild to severe. Here are some of the most common causes:

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is one of the most frequent and potentially serious causes of lower right abdominal pain. It occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and infected. Is appendicitis always an emergency? While not all cases are immediately life-threatening, appendicitis should always be treated as a medical emergency due to the risk of complications.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Several gastrointestinal conditions can cause pain in the lower right abdomen:

• Colitis (inflammation of the colon)
• Diverticulitis (inflammation of small pouches in the colon wall)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Reproductive System Disorders

In women, various reproductive system issues can manifest as lower right abdominal pain:

• Ovarian cysts
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Endometriosis

Urinary Tract Problems

Conditions affecting the urinary system can also cause pain in this region:

• Kidney stones
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Recognizing the Symptoms of Appendicitis

Given its potential severity, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of appendicitis. The typical symptoms include:

• Dull pain near the navel that becomes sharp as it moves to the lower right abdomen
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Abdominal swelling

How does appendicitis pain typically progress? Initially, the pain may be diffuse and centered around the navel. As the condition worsens, the pain often becomes more localized and intense in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen.

Diagnosing Lower Right Abdominal Pain

Accurately diagnosing the cause of lower right abdominal pain often requires a combination of methods:

Medical History and Physical Examination

A healthcare provider will typically begin by taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination. They may ask about the nature of the pain, its duration, and any associated symptoms.

Diagnostic Imaging

Various imaging techniques can be used to visualize the structures in the lower right abdomen:

• CT scan
• Ultrasound
• MRI

Laboratory Tests

Blood tests and urinalysis can help identify infections, inflammation, or other underlying conditions.

What specific tests might be ordered for lower right abdominal pain? Common tests include a complete blood count (CBC) to check for signs of infection, a pregnancy test in women of childbearing age, and tests for inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP).

Treatment Options for Lower Right Abdominal Pain

The treatment for lower right abdominal pain depends on its underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Appendicitis Treatment

Appendicitis typically requires surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy). This can be done through traditional open surgery or laparoscopically.

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Treatment for gastrointestinal issues may include:

• Dietary changes
• Medications to reduce inflammation or manage symptoms
• Antibiotics for infections

Reproductive System Issues

Treatment varies depending on the specific condition but may include:

• Hormonal therapies
• Pain management
• Surgical interventions

Urinary Tract Problems

Treatment often involves:

• Antibiotics for infections
• Pain relief medications
• Increased fluid intake

How long does it typically take to recover from appendicitis surgery? Recovery time can vary, but most people can return to normal activities within 1-3 weeks after laparoscopic surgery, or 2-4 weeks after open surgery.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While not all cases of lower right abdominal pain are emergencies, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Seek help if you experience:

• Severe, persistent pain
• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
• Bloody stools or vomiting blood
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Signs of dehydration
• Swelling or tenderness in the abdomen
• Unexplained weight loss

Can lower right abdominal pain ever resolve on its own? While some minor causes of abdominal pain may resolve without treatment, it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider for persistent or severe pain, especially if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Preventing Lower Right Abdominal Pain

While not all causes of lower right abdominal pain are preventable, certain lifestyle choices can reduce your risk:

Dietary Considerations

Maintaining a healthy diet can help prevent some gastrointestinal issues:

• Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods
• Stay hydrated
• Limit fatty and processed foods
• Identify and avoid food triggers if you have IBS or other digestive sensitivities

Regular Exercise

Physical activity can help maintain digestive health and reduce the risk of certain conditions that cause abdominal pain.

Hygiene Practices

Good hygiene can help prevent infections that may lead to abdominal pain:

• Wash hands regularly, especially before eating and after using the bathroom
• Practice safe sex to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease

Regular Check-ups

Routine medical check-ups can help detect potential issues early, before they cause significant pain or complications.

What role does stress management play in preventing abdominal pain? Stress can exacerbate many gastrointestinal conditions, so practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises may help prevent or reduce the frequency of abdominal pain episodes.

Living with Chronic Lower Right Abdominal Pain

For some individuals, lower right abdominal pain may be a chronic condition. Managing this long-term pain often requires a multifaceted approach:

Pain Management Techniques

Various strategies can help manage chronic pain:

• Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications
• Heat or cold therapy
• Relaxation techniques
• Physical therapy

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle changes may help alleviate chronic abdominal pain:

• Dietary adjustments
• Regular exercise
• Stress management
• Adequate sleep

Mental Health Support

Chronic pain can take a toll on mental health. Consider seeking support through:

• Counseling or therapy
• Support groups
• Mindfulness practices

How can you effectively communicate with healthcare providers about chronic abdominal pain? Keep a pain diary documenting the frequency, intensity, and any potential triggers of your pain. This information can help your healthcare team develop a more effective treatment plan.

Understanding the potential causes of lower right abdominal pain and recognizing when to seek medical attention is crucial for maintaining overall health. While some causes may be minor and self-resolving, others require prompt medical intervention. By staying informed and attentive to your body’s signals, you can ensure timely and appropriate care for any abdominal pain you may experience.

Pain in the Lower Right Abdomen: When to be Concerned

Pain is often a symptom of an underlying health problem and one area of the body that can experience great pain is the lower right abdomen. But when do you need to be concerned about an abdominal pain?

Abdominal pain. Image Credit: Miss Ty / Shutterstock

What is in the lower right abdomen?

Before anything else, it is important to review the body’s anatomy. What are the organs located in the abdomen, and what diseases are often seen in these areas?

The abdomen has four quadrants – upper right, lower right, upper left, and the lower left. In addition to these, there are three areas in the middle abdomen, namely, the epigastric, umbilical, and hypogastric area.

In each area, there are specific organs or parts of the gastrointestinal system. For instance, the right upper part of the abdomen is where the liver, gall bladder, right kidney, and pancreas are located. In the left upper quadrant, the stomach, left kidney, and spleen are situated. The lower left quadrant is where the small intestine, colon, ureter, and major veins or arteries to the veins are located. Lastly, the lower right abdominal area is the site of the appendix, ascending colon, and part of the female reproductive organs.

abdominal pain – inside the mind of a doctorPlay

Right lower abdominal pain

There are many conditions that can cause lower right abdominal pain. But one of the most common causes is appendicitis. Other causes include:

• Colitis or inflammation of the colon (large bowel)
• Diverticulitis or inflammation of an outpouching of the colon
• Inflammatory bowel disease, IBD
• Irritable bowel syndrome, IBS
• Diseases of the female reproductive organs such as:

These are differentiated by a careful history, looking for specific signs on physical examination, and diagnostic radiography, ultrasound, and/or CT scanning of the abdomen. Symptoms like fever, migration of pain from near the navel to lower down on the right side, and the presence of rigidity and rebound tenderness of the abdominal wall should alert the physician to the possibility of appendicitis.

This must be confirmed by imaging studies as above. If the CT scan results are normal, the disease is likely to be localized in the female reproductive organs, the colon or the urinary tract, and specific examinations and tests must then be performed.

Pain in the lower right quadrant should be taken seriously if it is severe and accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Fever, chest pain, or a feeling of extreme faintness
• Severe vomiting immediately after eating
• Breathing problems
• Irregular pulse rate
• Dark or blackish stools
• Vomiting blood
• Mild pain persisting after two days
• Pain worsening, or accompanied by unexplained weight loss
• Pain with bloating over more than two days, or diarrhea for more than five days
• Pain with fever or associated urinary problems

It’s important to know about appendicitis as one of the most common causes of right lower quadrant abdominal pain.

What is appendicitis?

People who suffer from lower right abdominal pain may have a condition called appendicitis, or inflammation of the appendix. Appendicitis is a medical emergency and if it’s not treated immediately, it can be life-threatening. An inflamed appendix may burst or rupture, causing perforation and spilling of infective material into the abdominal cavity.

Causes of appendicitis

The appendix can be inflamed due to many causes, and more than one cause may be present in any given case. Some common reasons for inflammation of the appendix include:

• Blockage of the opening in the appendix
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Hypertrophied (overgrown) tissue in the wall of the appendix (usually caused by an infection of the digestive tract)
• Trauma to the abdominal area
• the presence of hard stools, growths or parasites that can block the lumen of the appendix

The cause of appendicitis is unclear in many cases. It is true, nevertheless, that one of the most common causes is the obstruction of the appendix.

Appendicitis may be mild if treatment is initiated promptly. If pus builds up in the appendix due to inflammation, it may burst, flooding the abdominal area or cavity with the infected matter.

This usually happens after 36 hours from the onset of infection in the appendix. It may result in peritonitis (inflammation of the lining of the abdominal cavity) which is a potentially life-threatening complication, demanding prompt medical treatment.

When should you be concerned about right lower abdominal pain?

Appendicitis is a medical emergency. The common symptoms include a dull pain near the umbilical area or navel that becomes sharp, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea with gas, inability to pass gas, nausea or vomiting, and fever.

Other symptoms may appear, such as painful urination and a feeling that having a bowel movement will relieve discomfort and pain. Appendicitis can be mistaken for other conditions, such as gassy pains.

However, appendicitis may be suggested if the pain begins near the navel and moves to the right lower quadrant, becomes worse upon moving, walking or sneezing, becomes more intense over a few hours, occurs abruptly and may even wake you up from sleep, if the pain is the first symptom to occur, and if it very severe, often described as a pain worse than you’ve never felt before.

If you feel any of these symptoms, you must seek medical attention immediately.

How is appendicitis treated?

The only treatment for appendicitis is the surgical removal of the inflamed appendix. Pain medications can help relieve pain, but not for long. As long as the appendix is inflamed, the pain will persist. Worse, the appendix can rupture and cause infection in the whole abdominal cavity.

Appendectomy is a procedure involving the removal of the appendix. The procedure can be done through two methods – laparoscopic surgery and laparotomy. In laparoscopic surgery, surgeons use small incisions and specialized tools to remove the appendix. Since it’s less invasive than the traditional surgery, it has fewer complications and a shorter hospital stay.

On the other hand, laparotomy involves the removal of the appendix through a single incision over the abdominal wall in the right lower right quadrant. This is more invasive and may require a longer time for the patient to recover.

Usually, antibiotics are intravenously given to reduce the risk of peritonitis. The typical length of stay is between three and five days. The removal of the appendix has not been shown to have any effect on the digestive system, whether in the short or long term.

Further Reading

16 causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Several different conditions can cause pain in the lower right area of the abdomen. Some of these are severe and require immediate medical attention, so it is important to know the differences.

The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis. It contains vital organs involved in digestion, such as the intestines and the liver. The lower right portion of the abdomen contains a part of the colon, and the right ovary in women.

This article will outline the potential causes of pain in the lower right abdomen, their symptoms, and whether someone should seek medical assistance for them.

Share on PinterestThere are a number of conditions that can cause pain in the lower right abdomen.

Pain in the lower right abdomen can mean several different things. It can often be brief and not require any medical attention. These less serious causes include:

Indigestion

Pain can be felt in the lower abdomen region as a result of indigestion, which can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as heartburn and flatulence.

Indigestion is easily managed with over-the-counter medication but may require medical attention if symptoms last for more than 2 weeks.

Intestinal gas

When food is not digested properly, gas can build up in the intestines. This can cause feelings of discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region.

Symptoms will usually pass in a matter of hours, but persistence for several weeks could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as lactose intolerance.

Menstrual cramps

Women can experience abdominal pain before or during their period. The pain can be described as dull and persistent. It may be accompanied by aches in the back and legs, feelings of nausea, and headaches. Symptoms often occur in waves and continue for several days.

In some cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen can indicate a more serious condition that will require immediate medical assistance.

Appendicitis

When the pain is specific to the lower right abdomen, appendicitis is one of the most common causes. The appendix is a tube-like structure attached to the large intestines.

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. This causes a brief pain to develop in the middle of the abdomen, which spreads to the lower right abdomen where the pain becomes severe.

Other symptoms can include:

In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the appendix to relieve the pain. The function of the appendix remains unknown, and its removal does not pose any further health risks.

Kidney stones

Minerals and salts can build up in the kidney to form hard lumps, known as stones.

The size of kidney stones can vary considerably. The smaller stones can pass through the urinary system unnoticed, but larger stones can get stuck and cause severe pain around the lower back, side, abdomen, and the groin.

As the stones move throughout the urinary system, the pain will vary in its location and severity.

Other symptoms can include:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• persistent urge to urinate
• nausea
• vomiting

Kidney infection

It is possible for either one or both kidneys to become infected by bacteria in the urinary system. Pain typically occurs in the lower back, side, and groin. It can also be felt in the lower abdomen.

The pain is often less severe than from kidney stones, but medical attention is required to prevent permanent damage.

Other symptoms can include:

• nausea
• fever
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite

Kidney infections can be mistaken for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis, that have similar symptoms. These also include other symptoms, namely:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• smelly or cloudy urine
• persistent urges to urinate

Hernia

A hernia is where an internal body part pushes through a weakening in a muscle or tissue wall and causes a small lump. They most commonly happen around the abdominal area.

Hernias are often harmless and occur with few other symptoms. However, some can cause soreness around the lump, which may intensify when strained, such as when coughing or lifting a heavy object.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition of the digestive system. Its cause is unknown, and there is currently no cure for IBS.

IBS can cause pain in the abdominal area along with other symptoms, including:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• constipation
• bloating
• gas

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the digestive system.

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease both cause an inflammation of the gut and make up most cases of IBD. They can cause pain in the lower abdomen plus:

• rapid weight loss
• tiredness
• bloating
• persistent diarrhea, often with blood

There are significant anatomical differences between the abdomens of males and females. These differences mean that pain in the lower right abdomen can have gender-specific causes.

These conditions also require immediate medical attention.

Female only

Share on PinterestSome gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis, can cause abdominal pain.

Ovarian cyst

Cysts are sacs that can develop on the ovaries. They are often harmless, but larger ones can cause a dull or sharp pain in the abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• persistent urination
• bloating
• abnormally heavy or light periods
• becoming full very quickly
• difficulty urinating

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is where the tissue that typically lines the womb is found in other areas, such as the ovaries or the stomach. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back.

The severity of symptoms varies and can include:

• severe period pains
• pain during or after sex
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels during a period
• nausea
• abnormally heavy periods

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the genital tract. It can cause abdominal pain, but symptoms are often mild and infrequent. They can include:

• pain during sex
• pain during urination
• abnormally heavy or painful periods
• bleeding between periods or after sex
• nausea
• fever

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy can occur when a fertilized egg is present outside the womb, such as in one of the fallopian tubes. It can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms, including:

• typical signs of pregnancy, such as a missed period
• vaginal bleeding or brown discharge
• pain around the shoulder
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels
• nausea
• diarrhea

Many of these symptoms can also occur because of a stomach bug.

Ovarian torsion

The ovaries can become twisted with surrounding tissues, restricting blood flow. This causes severe pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• nausea
• abnormal periods

Male only

Inguinal hernia

Inguinal hernias typically occur when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through passages located in the lower abdomen. This is the most common type of hernia and typically occur in males.

An inguinal hernia causes a small lump to develop at the top of the thigh and can cause abdominal pain.

Testicular torsion

The spermatic cords that attach to the testicles can become twisted and restrict blood flow. This can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms including:

• pain when urinating
• nausea
• vomiting
• swelling in the scrotum

As lower right abdominal pain might be due to problems with the digestive system, urinary system, or reproductive organs, a range of approaches might be necessary to reach a diagnosis.

These include:

• ultrasound imaging
• CT scans
• MRI scans
• physical examination
• endoscopy, in which a doctor inserts a tube with an attached light and camera down the throat and into the stomach, producing an image of the lower abdomen
• blood tests, to pick up on any signs of infection, such as an increased white blood cell count

A primary care physician may refer a person with pain in the lower right abdomen to a specialist, including:

• a gastroenterologist, for issues with the digestive system
• a urologist, for pain occurring as the result of bladder or kidney problems
• a gynaecologist, for issues involving the womb, ovaries, or an ectopic pregnancy

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain.

OTC pain management is often sufficient to treat the less serious causes of pain in the lower-right abdomen. Some, such as abdominal gas, will pass without the need for treatment.

A person with a kidney infection would require antibiotic medications.

Surgery may be necessary for some people with severe abdominal pain. Appendicitis requires a removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy, and kidney stones often require intravenous (IV) pain management while a stone passes.

Some conditions that cause this pain, such as endometriosis and IBD, are chronic, and only the management of symptoms is possible. A person cannot fully get rid of either condition.

Whatever the treatment, seeking care for persistent or severe pain in the lower-right abdomen can help an individual resume a good quality of life.

In the majority of cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen is not a cause for concern. Gas, indigestion, and menstrual cramps do not typically require a visit to the doctor.

However, medical attention should be sought if any of the other conditions mentioned here are suspected, or if the pain lasts for more than 2 days.

Read the article in Spanish

16 causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Several different conditions can cause pain in the lower right area of the abdomen. Some of these are severe and require immediate medical attention, so it is important to know the differences.

The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis. It contains vital organs involved in digestion, such as the intestines and the liver. The lower right portion of the abdomen contains a part of the colon, and the right ovary in women.

This article will outline the potential causes of pain in the lower right abdomen, their symptoms, and whether someone should seek medical assistance for them.

Share on PinterestThere are a number of conditions that can cause pain in the lower right abdomen.

Pain in the lower right abdomen can mean several different things. It can often be brief and not require any medical attention. These less serious causes include:

Indigestion

Pain can be felt in the lower abdomen region as a result of indigestion, which can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as heartburn and flatulence.

Indigestion is easily managed with over-the-counter medication but may require medical attention if symptoms last for more than 2 weeks.

Intestinal gas

When food is not digested properly, gas can build up in the intestines. This can cause feelings of discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region.

Symptoms will usually pass in a matter of hours, but persistence for several weeks could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as lactose intolerance.

Menstrual cramps

Women can experience abdominal pain before or during their period. The pain can be described as dull and persistent. It may be accompanied by aches in the back and legs, feelings of nausea, and headaches. Symptoms often occur in waves and continue for several days.

In some cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen can indicate a more serious condition that will require immediate medical assistance.

Appendicitis

When the pain is specific to the lower right abdomen, appendicitis is one of the most common causes. The appendix is a tube-like structure attached to the large intestines.

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. This causes a brief pain to develop in the middle of the abdomen, which spreads to the lower right abdomen where the pain becomes severe.

Other symptoms can include:

In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the appendix to relieve the pain. The function of the appendix remains unknown, and its removal does not pose any further health risks.

Kidney stones

Minerals and salts can build up in the kidney to form hard lumps, known as stones.

The size of kidney stones can vary considerably. The smaller stones can pass through the urinary system unnoticed, but larger stones can get stuck and cause severe pain around the lower back, side, abdomen, and the groin.

As the stones move throughout the urinary system, the pain will vary in its location and severity.

Other symptoms can include:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• persistent urge to urinate
• nausea
• vomiting

Kidney infection

It is possible for either one or both kidneys to become infected by bacteria in the urinary system. Pain typically occurs in the lower back, side, and groin. It can also be felt in the lower abdomen.

The pain is often less severe than from kidney stones, but medical attention is required to prevent permanent damage.

Other symptoms can include:

• nausea
• fever
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite

Kidney infections can be mistaken for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis, that have similar symptoms. These also include other symptoms, namely:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• smelly or cloudy urine
• persistent urges to urinate

Hernia

A hernia is where an internal body part pushes through a weakening in a muscle or tissue wall and causes a small lump. They most commonly happen around the abdominal area.

Hernias are often harmless and occur with few other symptoms. However, some can cause soreness around the lump, which may intensify when strained, such as when coughing or lifting a heavy object.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition of the digestive system. Its cause is unknown, and there is currently no cure for IBS.

IBS can cause pain in the abdominal area along with other symptoms, including:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• constipation
• bloating
• gas

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the digestive system.

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease both cause an inflammation of the gut and make up most cases of IBD. They can cause pain in the lower abdomen plus:

• rapid weight loss
• tiredness
• bloating
• persistent diarrhea, often with blood

There are significant anatomical differences between the abdomens of males and females. These differences mean that pain in the lower right abdomen can have gender-specific causes.

These conditions also require immediate medical attention.

Female only

Share on PinterestSome gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis, can cause abdominal pain.

Ovarian cyst

Cysts are sacs that can develop on the ovaries. They are often harmless, but larger ones can cause a dull or sharp pain in the abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• persistent urination
• bloating
• abnormally heavy or light periods
• becoming full very quickly
• difficulty urinating

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is where the tissue that typically lines the womb is found in other areas, such as the ovaries or the stomach. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back.

The severity of symptoms varies and can include:

• severe period pains
• pain during or after sex
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels during a period
• nausea
• abnormally heavy periods

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the genital tract. It can cause abdominal pain, but symptoms are often mild and infrequent. They can include:

• pain during sex
• pain during urination
• abnormally heavy or painful periods
• bleeding between periods or after sex
• nausea
• fever

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy can occur when a fertilized egg is present outside the womb, such as in one of the fallopian tubes. It can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms, including:

• typical signs of pregnancy, such as a missed period
• vaginal bleeding or brown discharge
• pain around the shoulder
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels
• nausea
• diarrhea

Many of these symptoms can also occur because of a stomach bug.

Ovarian torsion

The ovaries can become twisted with surrounding tissues, restricting blood flow. This causes severe pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• nausea
• abnormal periods

Male only

Inguinal hernia

Inguinal hernias typically occur when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through passages located in the lower abdomen. This is the most common type of hernia and typically occur in males.

An inguinal hernia causes a small lump to develop at the top of the thigh and can cause abdominal pain.

Testicular torsion

The spermatic cords that attach to the testicles can become twisted and restrict blood flow. This can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms including:

• pain when urinating
• nausea
• vomiting
• swelling in the scrotum

As lower right abdominal pain might be due to problems with the digestive system, urinary system, or reproductive organs, a range of approaches might be necessary to reach a diagnosis.

These include:

• ultrasound imaging
• CT scans
• MRI scans
• physical examination
• endoscopy, in which a doctor inserts a tube with an attached light and camera down the throat and into the stomach, producing an image of the lower abdomen
• blood tests, to pick up on any signs of infection, such as an increased white blood cell count

A primary care physician may refer a person with pain in the lower right abdomen to a specialist, including:

• a gastroenterologist, for issues with the digestive system
• a urologist, for pain occurring as the result of bladder or kidney problems
• a gynaecologist, for issues involving the womb, ovaries, or an ectopic pregnancy

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain.

OTC pain management is often sufficient to treat the less serious causes of pain in the lower-right abdomen. Some, such as abdominal gas, will pass without the need for treatment.

A person with a kidney infection would require antibiotic medications.

Surgery may be necessary for some people with severe abdominal pain. Appendicitis requires a removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy, and kidney stones often require intravenous (IV) pain management while a stone passes.

Some conditions that cause this pain, such as endometriosis and IBD, are chronic, and only the management of symptoms is possible. A person cannot fully get rid of either condition.

Whatever the treatment, seeking care for persistent or severe pain in the lower-right abdomen can help an individual resume a good quality of life.

In the majority of cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen is not a cause for concern. Gas, indigestion, and menstrual cramps do not typically require a visit to the doctor.

However, medical attention should be sought if any of the other conditions mentioned here are suspected, or if the pain lasts for more than 2 days.

Read the article in Spanish

16 causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Several different conditions can cause pain in the lower right area of the abdomen. Some of these are severe and require immediate medical attention, so it is important to know the differences.

The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis. It contains vital organs involved in digestion, such as the intestines and the liver. The lower right portion of the abdomen contains a part of the colon, and the right ovary in women.

This article will outline the potential causes of pain in the lower right abdomen, their symptoms, and whether someone should seek medical assistance for them.

Share on PinterestThere are a number of conditions that can cause pain in the lower right abdomen.

Pain in the lower right abdomen can mean several different things. It can often be brief and not require any medical attention. These less serious causes include:

Indigestion

Pain can be felt in the lower abdomen region as a result of indigestion, which can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as heartburn and flatulence.

Indigestion is easily managed with over-the-counter medication but may require medical attention if symptoms last for more than 2 weeks.

Intestinal gas

When food is not digested properly, gas can build up in the intestines. This can cause feelings of discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region.

Symptoms will usually pass in a matter of hours, but persistence for several weeks could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as lactose intolerance.

Menstrual cramps

Women can experience abdominal pain before or during their period. The pain can be described as dull and persistent. It may be accompanied by aches in the back and legs, feelings of nausea, and headaches. Symptoms often occur in waves and continue for several days.

In some cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen can indicate a more serious condition that will require immediate medical assistance.

Appendicitis

When the pain is specific to the lower right abdomen, appendicitis is one of the most common causes. The appendix is a tube-like structure attached to the large intestines.

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. This causes a brief pain to develop in the middle of the abdomen, which spreads to the lower right abdomen where the pain becomes severe.

Other symptoms can include:

In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the appendix to relieve the pain. The function of the appendix remains unknown, and its removal does not pose any further health risks.

Kidney stones

Minerals and salts can build up in the kidney to form hard lumps, known as stones.

The size of kidney stones can vary considerably. The smaller stones can pass through the urinary system unnoticed, but larger stones can get stuck and cause severe pain around the lower back, side, abdomen, and the groin.

As the stones move throughout the urinary system, the pain will vary in its location and severity.

Other symptoms can include:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• persistent urge to urinate
• nausea
• vomiting

Kidney infection

It is possible for either one or both kidneys to become infected by bacteria in the urinary system. Pain typically occurs in the lower back, side, and groin. It can also be felt in the lower abdomen.

The pain is often less severe than from kidney stones, but medical attention is required to prevent permanent damage.

Other symptoms can include:

• nausea
• fever
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite

Kidney infections can be mistaken for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis, that have similar symptoms. These also include other symptoms, namely:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• smelly or cloudy urine
• persistent urges to urinate

Hernia

A hernia is where an internal body part pushes through a weakening in a muscle or tissue wall and causes a small lump. They most commonly happen around the abdominal area.

Hernias are often harmless and occur with few other symptoms. However, some can cause soreness around the lump, which may intensify when strained, such as when coughing or lifting a heavy object.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition of the digestive system. Its cause is unknown, and there is currently no cure for IBS.

IBS can cause pain in the abdominal area along with other symptoms, including:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• constipation
• bloating
• gas

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the digestive system.

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease both cause an inflammation of the gut and make up most cases of IBD. They can cause pain in the lower abdomen plus:

• rapid weight loss
• tiredness
• bloating
• persistent diarrhea, often with blood

There are significant anatomical differences between the abdomens of males and females. These differences mean that pain in the lower right abdomen can have gender-specific causes.

These conditions also require immediate medical attention.

Female only

Share on PinterestSome gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis, can cause abdominal pain.

Ovarian cyst

Cysts are sacs that can develop on the ovaries. They are often harmless, but larger ones can cause a dull or sharp pain in the abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• persistent urination
• bloating
• abnormally heavy or light periods
• becoming full very quickly
• difficulty urinating

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is where the tissue that typically lines the womb is found in other areas, such as the ovaries or the stomach. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back.

The severity of symptoms varies and can include:

• severe period pains
• pain during or after sex
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels during a period
• nausea
• abnormally heavy periods

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the genital tract. It can cause abdominal pain, but symptoms are often mild and infrequent. They can include:

• pain during sex
• pain during urination
• abnormally heavy or painful periods
• bleeding between periods or after sex
• nausea
• fever

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy can occur when a fertilized egg is present outside the womb, such as in one of the fallopian tubes. It can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms, including:

• typical signs of pregnancy, such as a missed period
• vaginal bleeding or brown discharge
• pain around the shoulder
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels
• nausea
• diarrhea

Many of these symptoms can also occur because of a stomach bug.

Ovarian torsion

The ovaries can become twisted with surrounding tissues, restricting blood flow. This causes severe pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• nausea
• abnormal periods

Male only

Inguinal hernia

Inguinal hernias typically occur when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through passages located in the lower abdomen. This is the most common type of hernia and typically occur in males.

An inguinal hernia causes a small lump to develop at the top of the thigh and can cause abdominal pain.

Testicular torsion

The spermatic cords that attach to the testicles can become twisted and restrict blood flow. This can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms including:

• pain when urinating
• nausea
• vomiting
• swelling in the scrotum

As lower right abdominal pain might be due to problems with the digestive system, urinary system, or reproductive organs, a range of approaches might be necessary to reach a diagnosis.

These include:

• ultrasound imaging
• CT scans
• MRI scans
• physical examination
• endoscopy, in which a doctor inserts a tube with an attached light and camera down the throat and into the stomach, producing an image of the lower abdomen
• blood tests, to pick up on any signs of infection, such as an increased white blood cell count

A primary care physician may refer a person with pain in the lower right abdomen to a specialist, including:

• a gastroenterologist, for issues with the digestive system
• a urologist, for pain occurring as the result of bladder or kidney problems
• a gynaecologist, for issues involving the womb, ovaries, or an ectopic pregnancy

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain.

OTC pain management is often sufficient to treat the less serious causes of pain in the lower-right abdomen. Some, such as abdominal gas, will pass without the need for treatment.

A person with a kidney infection would require antibiotic medications.

Surgery may be necessary for some people with severe abdominal pain. Appendicitis requires a removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy, and kidney stones often require intravenous (IV) pain management while a stone passes.

Some conditions that cause this pain, such as endometriosis and IBD, are chronic, and only the management of symptoms is possible. A person cannot fully get rid of either condition.

Whatever the treatment, seeking care for persistent or severe pain in the lower-right abdomen can help an individual resume a good quality of life.

In the majority of cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen is not a cause for concern. Gas, indigestion, and menstrual cramps do not typically require a visit to the doctor.

However, medical attention should be sought if any of the other conditions mentioned here are suspected, or if the pain lasts for more than 2 days.

Read the article in Spanish

16 causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Several different conditions can cause pain in the lower right area of the abdomen. Some of these are severe and require immediate medical attention, so it is important to know the differences.

The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis. It contains vital organs involved in digestion, such as the intestines and the liver. The lower right portion of the abdomen contains a part of the colon, and the right ovary in women.

This article will outline the potential causes of pain in the lower right abdomen, their symptoms, and whether someone should seek medical assistance for them.

Share on PinterestThere are a number of conditions that can cause pain in the lower right abdomen.

Pain in the lower right abdomen can mean several different things. It can often be brief and not require any medical attention. These less serious causes include:

Indigestion

Pain can be felt in the lower abdomen region as a result of indigestion, which can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as heartburn and flatulence.

Indigestion is easily managed with over-the-counter medication but may require medical attention if symptoms last for more than 2 weeks.

Intestinal gas

When food is not digested properly, gas can build up in the intestines. This can cause feelings of discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region.

Symptoms will usually pass in a matter of hours, but persistence for several weeks could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as lactose intolerance.

Menstrual cramps

Women can experience abdominal pain before or during their period. The pain can be described as dull and persistent. It may be accompanied by aches in the back and legs, feelings of nausea, and headaches. Symptoms often occur in waves and continue for several days.

In some cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen can indicate a more serious condition that will require immediate medical assistance.

Appendicitis

When the pain is specific to the lower right abdomen, appendicitis is one of the most common causes. The appendix is a tube-like structure attached to the large intestines.

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. This causes a brief pain to develop in the middle of the abdomen, which spreads to the lower right abdomen where the pain becomes severe.

Other symptoms can include:

In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the appendix to relieve the pain. The function of the appendix remains unknown, and its removal does not pose any further health risks.

Kidney stones

Minerals and salts can build up in the kidney to form hard lumps, known as stones.

The size of kidney stones can vary considerably. The smaller stones can pass through the urinary system unnoticed, but larger stones can get stuck and cause severe pain around the lower back, side, abdomen, and the groin.

As the stones move throughout the urinary system, the pain will vary in its location and severity.

Other symptoms can include:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• persistent urge to urinate
• nausea
• vomiting

Kidney infection

It is possible for either one or both kidneys to become infected by bacteria in the urinary system. Pain typically occurs in the lower back, side, and groin. It can also be felt in the lower abdomen.

The pain is often less severe than from kidney stones, but medical attention is required to prevent permanent damage.

Other symptoms can include:

• nausea
• fever
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite

Kidney infections can be mistaken for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis, that have similar symptoms. These also include other symptoms, namely:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• smelly or cloudy urine
• persistent urges to urinate

Hernia

A hernia is where an internal body part pushes through a weakening in a muscle or tissue wall and causes a small lump. They most commonly happen around the abdominal area.

Hernias are often harmless and occur with few other symptoms. However, some can cause soreness around the lump, which may intensify when strained, such as when coughing or lifting a heavy object.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition of the digestive system. Its cause is unknown, and there is currently no cure for IBS.

IBS can cause pain in the abdominal area along with other symptoms, including:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• constipation
• bloating
• gas

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the digestive system.

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease both cause an inflammation of the gut and make up most cases of IBD. They can cause pain in the lower abdomen plus:

• rapid weight loss
• tiredness
• bloating
• persistent diarrhea, often with blood

There are significant anatomical differences between the abdomens of males and females. These differences mean that pain in the lower right abdomen can have gender-specific causes.

These conditions also require immediate medical attention.

Female only

Share on PinterestSome gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis, can cause abdominal pain.

Ovarian cyst

Cysts are sacs that can develop on the ovaries. They are often harmless, but larger ones can cause a dull or sharp pain in the abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• persistent urination
• bloating
• abnormally heavy or light periods
• becoming full very quickly
• difficulty urinating

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is where the tissue that typically lines the womb is found in other areas, such as the ovaries or the stomach. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back.

The severity of symptoms varies and can include:

• severe period pains
• pain during or after sex
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels during a period
• nausea
• abnormally heavy periods

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the genital tract. It can cause abdominal pain, but symptoms are often mild and infrequent. They can include:

• pain during sex
• pain during urination
• abnormally heavy or painful periods
• bleeding between periods or after sex
• nausea
• fever

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy can occur when a fertilized egg is present outside the womb, such as in one of the fallopian tubes. It can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms, including:

• typical signs of pregnancy, such as a missed period
• vaginal bleeding or brown discharge
• pain around the shoulder
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels
• nausea
• diarrhea

Many of these symptoms can also occur because of a stomach bug.

Ovarian torsion

The ovaries can become twisted with surrounding tissues, restricting blood flow. This causes severe pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• nausea
• abnormal periods

Male only

Inguinal hernia

Inguinal hernias typically occur when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through passages located in the lower abdomen. This is the most common type of hernia and typically occur in males.

An inguinal hernia causes a small lump to develop at the top of the thigh and can cause abdominal pain.

Testicular torsion

The spermatic cords that attach to the testicles can become twisted and restrict blood flow. This can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms including:

• pain when urinating
• nausea
• vomiting
• swelling in the scrotum

As lower right abdominal pain might be due to problems with the digestive system, urinary system, or reproductive organs, a range of approaches might be necessary to reach a diagnosis.

These include:

• ultrasound imaging
• CT scans
• MRI scans
• physical examination
• endoscopy, in which a doctor inserts a tube with an attached light and camera down the throat and into the stomach, producing an image of the lower abdomen
• blood tests, to pick up on any signs of infection, such as an increased white blood cell count

A primary care physician may refer a person with pain in the lower right abdomen to a specialist, including:

• a gastroenterologist, for issues with the digestive system
• a urologist, for pain occurring as the result of bladder or kidney problems
• a gynaecologist, for issues involving the womb, ovaries, or an ectopic pregnancy

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain.

OTC pain management is often sufficient to treat the less serious causes of pain in the lower-right abdomen. Some, such as abdominal gas, will pass without the need for treatment.

A person with a kidney infection would require antibiotic medications.

Surgery may be necessary for some people with severe abdominal pain. Appendicitis requires a removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy, and kidney stones often require intravenous (IV) pain management while a stone passes.

Some conditions that cause this pain, such as endometriosis and IBD, are chronic, and only the management of symptoms is possible. A person cannot fully get rid of either condition.

Whatever the treatment, seeking care for persistent or severe pain in the lower-right abdomen can help an individual resume a good quality of life.

In the majority of cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen is not a cause for concern. Gas, indigestion, and menstrual cramps do not typically require a visit to the doctor.

However, medical attention should be sought if any of the other conditions mentioned here are suspected, or if the pain lasts for more than 2 days.

Read the article in Spanish

16 causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Several different conditions can cause pain in the lower right area of the abdomen. Some of these are severe and require immediate medical attention, so it is important to know the differences.

The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis. It contains vital organs involved in digestion, such as the intestines and the liver. The lower right portion of the abdomen contains a part of the colon, and the right ovary in women.

This article will outline the potential causes of pain in the lower right abdomen, their symptoms, and whether someone should seek medical assistance for them.

Share on PinterestThere are a number of conditions that can cause pain in the lower right abdomen.

Pain in the lower right abdomen can mean several different things. It can often be brief and not require any medical attention. These less serious causes include:

Indigestion

Pain can be felt in the lower abdomen region as a result of indigestion, which can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as heartburn and flatulence.

Indigestion is easily managed with over-the-counter medication but may require medical attention if symptoms last for more than 2 weeks.

Intestinal gas

When food is not digested properly, gas can build up in the intestines. This can cause feelings of discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region.

Symptoms will usually pass in a matter of hours, but persistence for several weeks could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as lactose intolerance.

Menstrual cramps

Women can experience abdominal pain before or during their period. The pain can be described as dull and persistent. It may be accompanied by aches in the back and legs, feelings of nausea, and headaches. Symptoms often occur in waves and continue for several days.

In some cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen can indicate a more serious condition that will require immediate medical assistance.

Appendicitis

When the pain is specific to the lower right abdomen, appendicitis is one of the most common causes. The appendix is a tube-like structure attached to the large intestines.

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. This causes a brief pain to develop in the middle of the abdomen, which spreads to the lower right abdomen where the pain becomes severe.

Other symptoms can include:

In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the appendix to relieve the pain. The function of the appendix remains unknown, and its removal does not pose any further health risks.

Kidney stones

Minerals and salts can build up in the kidney to form hard lumps, known as stones.

The size of kidney stones can vary considerably. The smaller stones can pass through the urinary system unnoticed, but larger stones can get stuck and cause severe pain around the lower back, side, abdomen, and the groin.

As the stones move throughout the urinary system, the pain will vary in its location and severity.

Other symptoms can include:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• persistent urge to urinate
• nausea
• vomiting

Kidney infection

It is possible for either one or both kidneys to become infected by bacteria in the urinary system. Pain typically occurs in the lower back, side, and groin. It can also be felt in the lower abdomen.

The pain is often less severe than from kidney stones, but medical attention is required to prevent permanent damage.

Other symptoms can include:

• nausea
• fever
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite

Kidney infections can be mistaken for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis, that have similar symptoms. These also include other symptoms, namely:

• blood in the urine
• pain when urinating
• smelly or cloudy urine
• persistent urges to urinate

Hernia

A hernia is where an internal body part pushes through a weakening in a muscle or tissue wall and causes a small lump. They most commonly happen around the abdominal area.

Hernias are often harmless and occur with few other symptoms. However, some can cause soreness around the lump, which may intensify when strained, such as when coughing or lifting a heavy object.

Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition of the digestive system. Its cause is unknown, and there is currently no cure for IBS.

IBS can cause pain in the abdominal area along with other symptoms, including:

• stomach cramps
• diarrhea
• constipation
• bloating
• gas

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the digestive system.

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease both cause an inflammation of the gut and make up most cases of IBD. They can cause pain in the lower abdomen plus:

• rapid weight loss
• tiredness
• bloating
• persistent diarrhea, often with blood

There are significant anatomical differences between the abdomens of males and females. These differences mean that pain in the lower right abdomen can have gender-specific causes.

These conditions also require immediate medical attention.

Female only

Share on PinterestSome gynecological conditions, such as endometriosis, can cause abdominal pain.

Ovarian cyst

Cysts are sacs that can develop on the ovaries. They are often harmless, but larger ones can cause a dull or sharp pain in the abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• persistent urination
• bloating
• abnormally heavy or light periods
• becoming full very quickly
• difficulty urinating

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is where the tissue that typically lines the womb is found in other areas, such as the ovaries or the stomach. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back.

The severity of symptoms varies and can include:

• severe period pains
• pain during or after sex
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels during a period
• nausea
• abnormally heavy periods

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of the genital tract. It can cause abdominal pain, but symptoms are often mild and infrequent. They can include:

• pain during sex
• pain during urination
• abnormally heavy or painful periods
• bleeding between periods or after sex
• nausea
• fever

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy can occur when a fertilized egg is present outside the womb, such as in one of the fallopian tubes. It can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms, including:

• typical signs of pregnancy, such as a missed period
• vaginal bleeding or brown discharge
• pain around the shoulder
• pain when urinating or emptying bowels
• nausea
• diarrhea

Many of these symptoms can also occur because of a stomach bug.

Ovarian torsion

The ovaries can become twisted with surrounding tissues, restricting blood flow. This causes severe pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms can include:

• pain during sex
• nausea
• abnormal periods

Male only

Inguinal hernia

Inguinal hernias typically occur when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through passages located in the lower abdomen. This is the most common type of hernia and typically occur in males.

An inguinal hernia causes a small lump to develop at the top of the thigh and can cause abdominal pain.

Testicular torsion

The spermatic cords that attach to the testicles can become twisted and restrict blood flow. This can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms including:

• pain when urinating
• nausea
• vomiting
• swelling in the scrotum

As lower right abdominal pain might be due to problems with the digestive system, urinary system, or reproductive organs, a range of approaches might be necessary to reach a diagnosis.

These include:

• ultrasound imaging
• CT scans
• MRI scans
• physical examination
• endoscopy, in which a doctor inserts a tube with an attached light and camera down the throat and into the stomach, producing an image of the lower abdomen
• blood tests, to pick up on any signs of infection, such as an increased white blood cell count

A primary care physician may refer a person with pain in the lower right abdomen to a specialist, including:

• a gastroenterologist, for issues with the digestive system
• a urologist, for pain occurring as the result of bladder or kidney problems
• a gynaecologist, for issues involving the womb, ovaries, or an ectopic pregnancy

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain.

OTC pain management is often sufficient to treat the less serious causes of pain in the lower-right abdomen. Some, such as abdominal gas, will pass without the need for treatment.

A person with a kidney infection would require antibiotic medications.

Surgery may be necessary for some people with severe abdominal pain. Appendicitis requires a removal of the appendix, known as an appendectomy, and kidney stones often require intravenous (IV) pain management while a stone passes.

Some conditions that cause this pain, such as endometriosis and IBD, are chronic, and only the management of symptoms is possible. A person cannot fully get rid of either condition.

Whatever the treatment, seeking care for persistent or severe pain in the lower-right abdomen can help an individual resume a good quality of life.

In the majority of cases, a pain in the lower right abdomen is not a cause for concern. Gas, indigestion, and menstrual cramps do not typically require a visit to the doctor.

However, medical attention should be sought if any of the other conditions mentioned here are suspected, or if the pain lasts for more than 2 days.

Read the article in Spanish

Right Lower Abdominal Pain | Right Lower Quadrant

Where is my right lower quadrant?

The right lower quadrant (RLQ) is a section of your tummy (abdomen). Look down at your tummy, and mentally divide the area from the bottom of your ribs down to your pubic hair into four quarters. The quarter on your right side below your belly button is your RLQ.

Abdominopelvic Quadrants

By Blausen.com staff (2014). “Medical gallery of Blausen Medical 2014”. WikiJournal of Medicine 1 (2). DOI:10.15347/wjm/2014.010. ISSN 2002-4436.

By Blausen.com staff (2014). “Blausen Medical 2014”. WikiJournal of Medicine 1 (2). DOI:10.15347/wjm/2014.010. ISSN 2002-4436. 

What is in my right lower quadrant?

Quadrant organs

By Mariana Ruiz Villarreal, modified by Madhero88 [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

By Mariana Ruiz Villarreal, modified by Madhero88 [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

• Small bowel (ileum).
• The connection between your small bowel and your large bowel (caecum).
• Appendix.
• First part of your large bowel (colon).
• Right ureter (at the back of the other organs).
• Right ovary and Fallopian tube.

And don’t forget the skin, muscles and nerves of that area.

What are the most common causes of right lower quadrant pain?

The list of causes of RLQ pain is extremely long but the following are some of the more common possibilities. They are not in order of how common they are.

What are the gut problems that can cause right lower quadrant pain?

All sorts of common and uncommon problems to do with your guts can give you pain in this area. For example:

Constipation

• If your guts are full of poo (faeces) this can cause discomfort anywhere in your tummy.
• You will normally be aware that you are not opening your bowels as often as usual.
• Your poo will be hard and pellet-like.

See the separate leaflet called Constipation for more information.

Gastroenteritis and food poisoning

• These conditions cause diarrhoea.
• They may also make you sick (vomit).
• Pain may be anywhere in the abdomen (tummy).
• Pain may ease for a while each time some diarrhoea is passed.

See the separate leaflets called Gastroenteritis and Food Poisoning for more information. 

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• This is very common.
• It tends to cause crampy tummy (abdominal) pains.
• It often causes bloating.
• It comes and goes and may be associated with diarrhoea and/or constipation.

See the separate leaflet called Irritable Bowel Syndrome for more information.

Appendicitis

• Usually the pain starts in the middle of the tummy over the period of an hour or so.
• Typically it moves to the RLQ over the next few hours.
• It tends to be sharper if you cough or move suddenly.
• It may ease a bit if you pull your knees up to your chest.
• You may also feel sick (nausea) and go off your food.
• You may have a temperature (fever) and will feel generally unwell.
• If the appendix bursts then pain can be severe and all over your tummy.

See the separate leaflet called Appendicitis for more information.

Diverticulitis

• This is an inflammation of a pouch or pouches which people who have diverticular disease have in their guts.
• Usually pain from diverticular disease is in the left lower quadrant (LLQ) but it can be on the right or sometimes can be felt higher up.
• It usually comes with a temperature and a change in bowel habit (opening your bowels more or less often than usual for you).

See the separate leaflet called Diverticula (Diverticulosis, Diverticular Disease, Diverticulitis) for more information.

Trapped inguinal or femoral hernia

• A right inguinal or femoral hernia happens when a piece of bowel or other tissue from inside the tummy pushes through a weakness in the muscles of the tummy wall near the right groin.
• It can happen on either side.
• If whatever has pushed through gets stuck and can’t slide back inside the tummy, it is trapped (incarcerated).
• If it happens on the right-hand side, there will be a tender swelling in the right groin.
• It causes pain in the groin and in the tummy, usually on the side of the hernia but it may cause pain over the whole tummy.
• It is common to be sick (vomit).

See the separate leaflet called Hernia for more information.

What is a common kidney problem that can cause right lower quadrant pain?

Kidney infection

• A kidney infection can cause pain anywhere along your urinary tract. So this could be anywhere from the loin in your back, around the side and down to the RLQ.
• You may notice that it hurts when you pass urine and that you need to pass urine more often.
• You may have a temperature.

See the separate leaflet called Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis) for more information.

What are the problems that only women get that can cause right lower quadrant pain?

Mittelschmerz

• This is pain when you release an egg (ovulation), which is usually about halfway between two periods.
• It can be very severe and stop you short but usually eases over several minutes.
• It will only be felt on one side but can be right or left. You may get similar pain on the same or other side of your tummy at the same point in another cycle.

Pelvic inflammatory disease

• Pain is usually on both sides but may just be in the RLQ.
• Pain is worse during sex.
• There is abnormal bleeding, so bleeding not just at period time but in between periods and often after sex.
• You may feel generally unwell and feverish.
• There is usually a vaginal discharge, which may be smelly.

See the separate leaflet called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease for more information.

Twisted ovary

• Twisted ovary (ovarian torsion) usually only occurs if a fluid-filled sac (cyst) has developed on the right ovary.
• Pain can be constant or intermittent.
• Symptoms can be similar to appendicitis.

See the separate leaflet called Ovarian Cyst for more information.

Endometriosis

• Sometimes endometriosis can cause constant lower tummy pain, although usually it is worse just before, during and for a short while after a period.
• Pain is usually across the lower part of the tummy but it can be just on the right side.

See the separate leaflet called Endometriosis for more information.

Ectopic pregnancy

You should always see a doctor urgently if there is any chance that you may be pregnant and are experiencing right lower quadrant pain. You could have an ectopic pregnancy.

See the separate leaflet called Right Lower Quadrant Pain in Pregnancy for causes of abdominal pain in pregnancy.

What are the problems that only men get that can cause right lower quadrant pain?

Any pain coming from the right side of the scrotum can cause pain in the RLQ but usually the pain in the scrotum will be worse.

Torsion of the testicle

• Torsion of the testicle (testis) causes severe pain in the scrotum and severe lower quadrant pain, usually on one side.
• It most commonly affects teenage boys but young adult men can be affected.
• It is unusual over the age of 25 years but can affect any man at any age.
• The testicle is very tender.
• You should seek urgent medical advice.

See the separate leaflet called Torsion of the Testis for more information.

Epididymo-orchitis

• Epididymo-orchitis is an inflammation of the testicle and/or the tubes surrounding it (epididymis).
• It is caused by a germ (infection).
• The affected side of the scrotum swells and goes very red and tender.

See the separate leaflet called Epididymo-orchitis for more information.

What are the other possible causes of right lower quadrant pain?

Inflammatory bowel disease

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is not to be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which is very different. These conditions cause the lining of the gut to become inflamed. Diarrhoea (sometimes with blood mixed in) is usually the main symptom.

• Crohn’s disease:
• Any part of the gut can be affected and the pain depends on which part is affected.
• The most common place for it to start is at the end of the small intestine (ileum) causing RLQ pain.
• This is where the appendix is and the symptoms can be very like appendicitis.

See the separate leaflet called Crohn’s Disease for more information.

• Ulcerative colitis
• Diarrhoea is often mixed with mucus or pus.
• Blood mixed with the diarrhoea is common.
• The tummy (abdominal) pain is typically crampy.

See the separate leaflet called Ulcerative Colitis for more information. 

Colon cancer

• Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK (in contrast, cancer of the small intestine is rare).
• Although it can affect any part of the large bowel (colon), it commonly affects the last part (descending colon) which is on the left-hand side.
• Pain is more likely to be in the left lower quadrant (LLQ) than the RLQ.
• There is usually a change in how often you need to open your bowels and you may notice that you have lost weight, without trying.

See the separate leaflet called Colon, Rectal and Bowel Cancer (Colorectal Cancer) for more information.

Kidney stones

• Kidney stones are hard stones that can form in the kidney, in the tube (the ureter) draining urine from the kidney, or in the bladder.
• A stone that passes into the ureter draining urine from your right kidney may cause pain that starts in your right loin and spreads (radiates) to your groin and RLQ, or into your testicle (testis) if you are a man.
• You may notice blood in your pee.

See the separate leaflet called Kidney Stones for more information.

Shingles

• In some cases you may have pain from shingles before a blistery rash appears.
• Pain tends to be sharp or burning.
• You may not feel quite yourself.
• The tummy (abdomen) is a common place for shingles rash.

See the separate leaflet called Shingles (Herpes Zoster) for more information.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm

• An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a swelling of the largest blood vessel in the body (the aorta) inside the abdomen.
• It doesn’t usually cause any symptoms but can occasionally cause pain before it bursts. The pain is usually felt in your back or the side of your tummy (abdomen) but it can occasionally be felt in the right (or left) lower quadrant.

See the separate leaflet called Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm for more information.

What else could it be?

These lists of possible causes for RLQ are by no means exhaustive and there are many other conditions that can cause pain in the RLQ. Problems in your spine or back could be ‘referred’. Referred pain in this situation means that it is coming from your back but you are feeling it around the front. Muscular pulls and sprains can also affect you in the tummy area. If this is the case, moving the particular muscle would make the pain worse, whereas if you were to lie completely still, it wouldn’t hurt.

Should I see a doctor?

Yes, if you have a pain which doesn’t settle, you will probably need to see a health professional to help you figure out the cause. See a doctor urgently if you:

• Have very severe pain.
• Have persistent sickness (vomiting).
• Have recently lost weight without trying to do so.
• Have persistent diarrhoea.
• Feel giddy, light-headed, faint or breathless.
• Are bringing up blood or have blood in your poo (faeces).
• Have a change from your usual bowel habit. This means you may open your bowels more or less often than usual, causing bouts of diarrhoea or constipation.
• Could be pregnant.

What are the usual tests for right lower quadrant pain?

Your doctor will narrow the (enormous) field of possible RLQ pain diagnoses by talking with you and examining you. They may be able to find the cause simply by doing so. For example, if they find the typical rash of shingles, you will need no further tests to find the cause. The doctor will certainly need to feel your tummy (abdomen) in the area you have the pain, but may also need to examine other parts too, such as the rest of your tummy.

You will probably be asked to provide a sample of urine, to rule out kidney problems.

You may well have to go for blood tests. These might include tests to:

• Check the function of your liver and kidneys.
• Rule out any inflammation or infection in your body.
• Look for anaemia.
• Check your sugar level.

What other tests might be needed for right lower quadrant pain?

Next it will depend on what the examination and the tests above have suggested. In some cases no further tests will be needed – if, for example, your doctor is confident you have constipation or shingles.

If a problem with your large bowel is suspected, you may need an examination with a tube with a camera put into your large bowel (a colonoscopy). A computerised tomography (CT) scan or an ultrasound scan may be helpful to look for diverticula and to look at your kidneys. These tests are also used in women to look at the ovary and tubes. In some cases an X-ray of the tummy may be useful. Further tests include other ‘scopes’ (such as a sigmoidoscopy) and other scans (such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan).

If it is thought you have appendicitis, an ectopic pregnancy (women) or a torsion of your testicle (testis) – men, you may only have one or two of these tests before having emergency surgery to treat your problem.

Nobody will need all these tests, and some people may not need any.

What treatment will I need for right lower quadrant pain?

There is no single answer to this until you know what the cause of your pain is. See the relevant leaflet for the condition with which you have been diagnosed. Treatments for a few of the causes of RLQ pain are briefly discussed below.

• Constipation can be treated with medicines, but often changes to your diet are needed to prevent it happening again.
• Gastroenteritis usually doesn’t need any treatment, other than drinking plenty of fluid to compensate for all that is being lost. Occasionally when germs (bacteria) which can be treated with antibiotics are causing the infection, an antibiotic may help.
• Appendicitis is cured with an operation (an appendicectomy).
• Ectopic pregnancy is usually treated by an operation but medical treatment is now more common. This avoids the need for surgery and means the tube is less likely to be permanently damaged.
• Shingles. The pain and rash settle on their own in time, but some people may be advised to take an antiviral tablet to help speed this process up.
• Kidney infections are treated with antibiotics. Mild infections can be treated with antibiotics at home. If you are very unwell you may need admission to hospital for antibiotics and fluids through a drip (intravenously).
• Kidney stones. Small kidney stones pass on their own eventually, in which case you will need to drink plenty of fluids and take strong painkillers. Larger kidney stones may need one of a number of procedures done to break them up or remove them altogether.

What is the outlook?

Again this depends entirely on the cause of the pain. Some conditions settle very quickly on their own (for example, gastroenteritis), or with the help of antibiotics (for example, a kidney infection). Others can be cured with surgery, such as appendicitis or torsion of the testicle (testis). Some are long-term conditions, for which there is no cure although there are treatments, such those used for people who have Crohn’s disease. Your doctor should be able to give you an idea of the outlook (prognosis) once a diagnosis has become clear.

90,000 🧬 Why does the right side hurt

This unpleasant symptom can manifest itself in different ways: the pain on the right side in the side is sharp, pulling, appearing with active movement or at rest. Why does this happen and how to understand when it is time to see a doctor? We will tell you together with the GMS Clinic surgeon Bulat Yunusov.

Why can the right side hurt?

The causes of this symptom are usually related to internal organs. “This is a sign that something located on the right side of the abdomen is suffering,” says Bulat Yunusov, surgeon at GMS Clinics and Hospitals.”The cause of damage to these organs can also be different, for example, inflammation, oncological processes, trauma, the consequences of previous operations, neurological disorders.”

However, this symptom may have other reasons. “The unpleasant sensation in the right side can be muscular in nature, especially if it occurs after physical exertion. If the person falls on their right side, the pain may be associated with muscle contusion or injury, such as myositis.Gallstones can also cause unpleasant tingling sensations in the side. The stones close the ducts, which leads to a swelling of the bladder and, as a result, to the occurrence of calculous cholecystitis, that is, an inflammatory process. All this, of course, is accompanied by pain, ”commented an invited specialist from another medical center. Let’s consider the main causes of pain in the right side.

Inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Pain and cramps in the right side can be caused by a whole bunch of inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract.“These are, for example, appendicitis, diverticulitis, colitis, gastroenteritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers,” says Bulat Yunusov.

Most often, with these diagnoses, pain is felt as aching, moderate, with a gradually increasing intensity. With appendicitis, pain can increase when walking, coughing, changing body position, and decrease at rest. Also, with this diagnosis, there is an increase in temperature, nausea, and vomiting.

With a stomach ulcer, the pain becomes more noticeable after eating fatty, spicy or fried foods, alcohol, as well as intense physical exertion.Additional symptoms may include heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.

With colitis (inflammation of the intestines), the pain can be pulling or paroxysmal. The disease is also accompanied by diarrhea, fever, general weakness, headaches, the presence of mucus in the feces.

With diverticulitis (protrusion of the intestinal walls), acute pain is felt to the right of the navel, the temperature rises, and diarrhea appears (with blood and mucus).

With gastroenteritis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and small intestine), pain in the right side is accompanied by a lack of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, etc.

With pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), the pain begins suddenly and is constant and intense. Sometimes it can “give” to the left side or intensify after eating heavy, fatty or spicy foods.

Diseases of the urinary system

Often the side hurts on the right side due to the organs of the excretory system. “These include urolithiasis and pyelonephritis,” says Bulat Yunusov.

Pyelonephritis is an inflammatory kidney disease, in which, in addition to pain in the right side, weakness, nausea, vomiting, “jumping” pulse, dry mouth, high temperature may also occur.

Pain in the side with urolithiasis can be constant or wavy, dull or acute, it can only bother at rest or intensify when walking. It depends on the location of the stone, but sometimes pain can first be felt in the lumbar region (the so-called “renal colic”), and only then “settle” in the right side.

Liver diseases

“Pain in the right side can occur with damage to the liver and organs of the hepatobiliary system,” says Bulat Yunusov. “Such diseases include cholecystitis, obstructive jaundice, liver cysts, hepatitis, cirrhosis.” All these diagnoses are characterized by a rather sharp pain in the right side, which can “radiate” to the right shoulder, neck or shoulder blade.

Often, on the right side at the bottom it hurts in women due to malfunctions of the pelvic organs.“Such disorders in work include inflammatory diseases (salpingitis, salpingo-oophoritis) and non-inflammatory (corpus luteum cyst, ovarian tumors, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy),” notes Bulat Yunusov.

With salpingitis (inflammation of the fallopian tubes) and salpingo-oophoritis (inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries), the pain is most often felt as pulling in the groin area, but it can also “give” to the right or left side. It is accompanied by fever, nausea, severe headache, vaginal discharge and intensifies during sexual intercourse.

With ovarian or corpus luteum cysts, pulling or stabbing pain is mainly localized in the lower abdomen or lower back, but can also be felt in the right side.

With endometriosis, pain is most often acute, cramping, and can disappear and return. It is felt, as a rule, in the lower abdomen, in the left or right side (closer to the lower back).

Reaction to physical activity

Sometimes the right side hurts not at all due to malfunctions in the work of internal organs (which we discussed above).If you felt pain on the right during (or immediately after) physical activity, chances are that it is:

• Muscle spasm due to weakness in the muscles of the back or peritoneum.
• Spasm of the diaphragm. It is most often encountered while running: rapid breathing causes the diaphragm to contract faster, which can cause it to spasm and “give off” pain in the right side.
• Enhanced liver function. This organ is considered the “blood” depot of the body.During exercise, the liver may slightly increase in volume and “press” on its outer capsule, where there are many nerve endings, which will feel like pain in the right side. And similar discomfort can arise due to an improper diet: for example, if before training you “went too far” with carbohydrates or fats. In this case, during the lesson, the liver will be forced to work with increased stress, which can also provoke pain syndrome.

How to determine why your right side hurts

Of course, you will not be able to make an accurate diagnosis on your own.However, you can get some idea about it, starting from how exactly your right side hurts. “In acute diseases, pain occurs suddenly, increasing in intensity in a short period of time (hours, sometimes days),” says Bulat Yunusov. – If the reason is some kind of chronic disease, then the pain syndrome is either constant or wavy in nature, not differing in great intensity. ”

It’s also important to check for additional symptoms.“To correctly determine the cause of pain in the right side, it is necessary to listen to the nature of this pain. For example, muscle pain is usually dull and aching, – commented the invited specialist. – However, muscle pain can be acute, because in addition to muscles in the right side there are intervertebral joints, which can be a source of discomfort. With gallstone disease or acute cholecystitis, an increased temperature joins the pain. This situation can be called “pain-plus” – pain and temperature.The discomfort caused by renal colic can also be “pain-plus”, but already pain plus frequent urination or the presence of blood in the urine. Pain caused by bowel problems – pain plus diarrhea. ”

What to do if your right side hurts

As you can see, side pain can be a symptom of a wide variety of health problems. Therefore, you should not ignore it – be sure to see a doctor. “It is not always possible to determine the severity of the disease that caused the situation by the nature of the pain syndrome.This applies, first of all, to the elderly and patients suffering from diabetes mellitus – serious diseases of the abdominal cavity can be erased (pain syndrome may not be expressed at all or disappear completely), says Bulat Yunusov. – Thus, if abdominal pain does not go away within a few hours and is accompanied by an increase in body temperature, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stool disorders (constipation or diarrhea), discomfort during urination, a decrease in blood pressure, then the only correct solution is an in-person consultation doctor “.

Can you take medicine if you have severe pain in your right side? Yes, but with caution. “You should not resort to taking analgesics on your own, as this can“ blur ”the clinical picture of the disease, which will lead to an untimely formulation of the correct diagnosis,” says Bulat Yunusov. “The only thing is that it is possible to take antispasmodics (for example, no-shpy): these drugs relieve spasm of the muscles of internal organs and are aimed at eliminating the cause of the pain syndrome, in inflammatory diseases, as a rule, they do not give an analgesic effect.”

In general, doctors have a negative attitude towards self-medication. “At home, it’s impossible to guarantee pain relief without harming the body as a whole. You can dull the feeling of discomfort, thereby relieving your torment only for a while. In addition, by self-medication, completely unintentionally, you can cripple some other organ, which initially had nothing to do with pain in the right side. Home treatment is not a safe remedy. ”

The best way out is to make an appointment with a general practitioner and discuss your condition with him. Sometimes the problem can be solved “remotely”. “To understand the conditions that are accompanied by a wave-like course with dull pain for a long time, possibly with a remote consultation,” sums up Bulat Yunusov.

Source: Zhivi.ru

Severity in the lower abdomen – causes of appearance, in what diseases it occurs, diagnosis and treatment methods

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section cannot be used for self-diagnosis and self-medication.In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For a diagnosis and correct prescription of treatment, you should contact your attending physician.

Severity in the lower abdomen – the causes of the appearance, in what diseases it occurs, the diagnosis and methods of treatment.

Feeling of heaviness, bloating, pulling pain in the lower abdomen are subjective sensations and require detailed diagnosis.The abdomen is a concentration of vital organs that are close to each other, which makes it difficult to determine the source of discomfort. The situation is aggravated by the fact that it is difficult for a person to describe the feelings experienced and indicate the exact location of pain.

Varieties

Often the heaviness in the lower abdomen is accompanied by pain, a feeling of fullness, and sometimes discharge from the genitals or rectum.

The pain can be acute, paroxysmal, pulling, have different localization (right, left or center) and give to the lower back, scrotum, rectum or vagina.

Possible causes of severity in the lower abdomen

The severity and pulling sensations in the lower abdomen are often physiological in nature and occur at pregnancy . Discomfort develops due to the enlargement of the uterus, which presses on neighboring organs – the bladder, intestines. In addition, the enlarged uterus stretches the ligaments and abdominal muscles, causing mild pain. However, the combination of severity with severe pain can be a symptom of an ectopic pregnancy or early placental abruption.

Also common causes of severity in the lower abdomen include premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea. Premenstrual syndrome occurs in more than half of women. There is no clear clinical picture of this condition. Often it is accompanied by heaviness and pain in the lower abdomen, mood swings, tearfulness, headache. These symptoms disappear after the onset of menstruation.

At the heart of premenstrual syndrome are changes in hormonal levels.

With dysmenorrhea , the pain syndrome is more pronounced, and the cause may be a violation of blood circulation in the pelvic region. Vascular spasm and venous congestion lead to irritation of the nerve endings, which is accompanied by a pulling pain. Similar sensations are characteristic of perimenopause period , which occurs from the moment of the first menopausal symptoms and lasts one to two years after the last menstruation. During this period, the level of estradiol in the blood fluctuates greatly, which can cause heaviness in the lower abdomen and lower back pain.

Gynecological diseases are almost always accompanied by pain and heaviness in the lower abdomen. Most often these are inflammatory processes of the pelvic organs: adnexitis, endometritis, salpingitis, parametritis , etc. As a rule, these pathologies develop as a result of an ascending infection. The main pathogens are sexually transmitted microorganisms, or microorganisms that live in the external genitalia and anus. Additional factors contribute to the development of inflammation: frequent change of sexual partners, previous infectious processes, abortion, use of intrauterine devices, etc.etc.

Inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs are accompanied by a pulling pain radiating to the lower back and lower extremities, discharge (sometimes blood) from the vagina, and fever. The symptoms of endometriosis , which often causes pulling pain, are worse before the onset of menstruation. The severity of the lower abdomen is sometimes the only manifestation of ovarian cysts and of uterine fibroids .

pelvic pain became a common problem, which can be caused by urological, gynecological, proctological and vascular disorders.

Pulling and aching pains can appear with irritable bowel syndrome and are accompanied by diarrhea or constipation, bloating and flatulence. At night, the feeling of discomfort goes away.

With diseases of the genitourinary system, the severity of the lower abdomen develops very often. When a stone blocks the ureter or urethra, the outflow of urine is impaired and there is a pulling pain in the groin. With complete obstruction, pain can take on a sharp unbearable character.Violation of the outflow of urine can also be the result of other diseases: hyperplasia or cancer of the prostate gland, strictures of the urethra, etc. In these cases, pain appears in the perineum, in the sacrum or in the lower abdomen. Often they are given to the groin and external genitals.

Often, a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen can be a manifestation of osteochondrosis of the lumbar spine. Aching pain usually occurs while walking or in a sitting position.Pain subsides at night.

Diagnostics and examination

Diagnosis of pathologies associated with pain and a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen is difficult.

Since the clinical manifestations of the diseases do not correspond to their severity, delay in treating the abdominal organs is fraught with serious consequences.

After interviewing and examining the patient, the doctor gives a referral for a clinical blood test and a general urine test.

90,000 Retroperitoneal tumors

Most of the oncological tumors of the small pelvis have a local form of occurrence and development, that is, they appear in certain organs located in the small pelvis. These organs include the rectum, the uterus in women, the bladder, and the prostate gland in men.

Epidemiology

retroperitoneal tumor, etidemiology Retroperitoneal tumor occurs in people of any age, but, as a rule, such diseases occur in people aged 40 to 60 years.Moreover, in men, a retroperitoneal tumor is diagnosed less often than in women.

Tumors affecting multiple organs are the most difficult to treat. However, such diseases are extremely rare. The pelvic space contains a large number of embryogenetically diverse tissues. This is what contributes to the development of various forms of malignant tumors.

Malignant tumors that are not associated with organs occur much less frequently. As a rule, such formations are classified as different types of sarcomas.This type of neoplasm is diagnosed at the stage when the tumor begins to affect the organs: the rectum, urogenital organs, bones and blood vessels.

Symptoms of pelvic tumors

Symptoms of pelvic tumors Various symptoms occur with the appearance and development of cecum cancer and its location in the rectosigmoidal part. The manifestation of symptoms depends on the size of the formation, the presence of complications such as bleeding, intestinal obstruction, perforation.The most common symptom is anemia caused by bleeding from the tumor. In addition, a person with cecum cancer may feel frequent dizziness and general weakness. Pallor and tachycardia are noted. In more difficult situations, aching incessant pains in the lower right abdomen are noted.

Early symptoms of cecum cancer: lack of appetite, weight loss, digestive upset. With a significant decrease in weight, we can talk about the progressive development of malignant formation.

Retroperitoneal tumor of the sigmoid colon is characterized by the appearance of intestinal obstruction. In most patients, there is a change in the consistency of feces, blood and mucus clots can be observed in it.

If a malignant formation has arisen in the rectum, the symptoms are very invisible to humans. Among the early manifestations of the disease, a feeling of incomplete release of feces from the intestines can be answered. Bleeding occurs. Patients may indicate pulling and grasping pains in the lower abdomen.As a rule, such pains are not severe.

Causes of tumors in the small pelvis

Causes of tumors in the small pelvis Types of tumor neoplasms can vary depending on the age of the man or woman. In girls, in the first weeks of life, the influence of placental estrogens from the mother is observed. In this condition, they can cause cysts on the ovaries. At the age of puberty, a pelvic tumor in women can occur due to stagnation of blood during the menstrual period, if the hymen is overgrown.Because of this, malignant formations can form in the uterus and ovaries.

From the age of 18, women may experience enlargement of the uterus during pregnancy and in the presence of fibroids. A pelvic tumor in women can occur in the ovarian region if abnormal pregnancy is observed. In addition, cancer can develop in the fallopian tubes due to frequent inflammation.

Pelvic tumor in women occurs most often during the period of completion of reproductive function.

Pelvic tumor in men can occur in the form of diseases of the prostate gland. Prostate cancer is considered the most common malignant neoplasm in males.

Diagnosis of pelvic cancer

Diagnosing cancers of the small pelvis In women and men, a retroperitoneal tumor manifests itself with the same symptoms. As a rule, these are pains in the lower abdomen, constipation, detection of blood in the stool.Some patients have anemia associated with intra-abdominal bleeding.

A pelvic tumor in women, arising in the uterus, manifests itself in the form of bleeding from the internal genital organs, pain in the pelvic organs, less often the occurrence of ectopic pregnancy and trophoblastic disease.

With a disease such as endometriosis, pain occurs during menstruation. In young girls with an early onset of the menstrual cycle, a hormone-producing ovarian tumor may be diagnosed.In girls with a delayed onset of the menstrual cycle, the development of masculinizing neoplasms of the ovaries is possible. During the period of the end of menstruation in females with the presence of menometrorrhagia, a malignant tumor of the small pelvis may begin to develop in women.

Methods for examining patients

If a pelvic tumor in women is not detected during clinical examination, then special examination methods are prescribed. The same examination is prescribed if a pelvic tumor in men is not detected during a general examination.Tests are ordered when symptoms are present.

Ultrasound is prescribed as the initial research method. If ultrasound does not give a complete picture of the situation, then MRI and CT can be used to detect malignant neoplasms. When performing an MRI, a retroperitoneal tumor, even small in size, will be detected.

If a retroperitoneal tumor of dense composition, irregular shape with inclusions is detected, it is very important to make tissue studies for cancer cells. A pelvic tumor in women, namely malignant formations in the ovaries, is diagnosed by tumor markers.

Treatment

Treatment A retroperitoneal tumor in the pelvic tissue can only be cured with surgery. If a pelvic tumor in men has involved several organs, then surgical intervention is extremely difficult. Unfortunately, many doctors cannot perform such an intervention, and even experienced doctors refuse to perform operations. Such an intervention can result in partial or complete cutting off of the bladder, rectum, and reproductive organs in women.If a tumor of the small pelvis in men and women has affected the bones and large vessels, then the disease is considered incurable.

A pelvic tumor in men and women, affecting the large intestine, is treated by cutting off the diseased part of the intestine. The method of cutting off depends on the location of the primary formation and the presence of metastases. Before the appointment of the operation, the abdominal organs are carefully examined. The size of the portion of the intestine to be cut depends on the size of the tumor. If the retroperitoneal tumor comes from the caecum or sigmoid colon, then removal of the diseased part of the intestine is required, leaving and joining the healthy parts.

Pelvic tumor in men in the sigmoid colon requires cutting off the sigmoid colon itself, the lower part of the colon, vessels.

Conclusion

Any retroperitoneal tumor requires a certain number of chemotherapy drips. Even after the retroperitoneal tumor has been removed, chemotherapy continues for the required amount of time.

Everyone should remember that if early symptoms appear, immediate medical attention is recommended.With early diagnosis of the disease, the retroperitoneal tumor can be completely cured without major surgical intervention.

Do not forget that a retroperitoneal tumor, although a serious disease, is treatable, so you should not delay the trip to the oncologist. At the same time, a retroperitoneal tumor is quite easily diagnosed using ultrasound, MRI and CT.

Drawing or cutting pain in the lower abdomen

Such pains occur when one or more organs have increased in size and press on the surrounding muscles.Why is this happening?

The reasons can be completely different.
Let’s look at examples from men and women. In both sexes, such pain can cause severe muscle overstrain and the impossibility of their contraction.
It is also worth remembering that such pains accompany genital infections. Always pay attention to the color and odor of your genital discharge. In a healthy person, the discharge is transparent and practically odorless.

Women

Such pains often occur with menstruation.If they happen on the 12-14th day of the usual 28-day cycle, without the usual discharge, then you should immediately contact your gynecologist. This may indicate various inflammations in the uterus and ovaries. If the pain increases during menstruation or becomes unbearable, this indicates a rapidly developing endometriosis or more terrible diseases, up to cancer.

Lower abdominal pain in women often speaks of pregnancy, including ectopic pregnancy.

If you experience similar pain during intercourse, then you should also contact your gynecologist.He will find out why at this moment the uterus increases in size, although this should not be so. If pain occurs during or after urination, this indicates an infection in the bladder. It can be common in women pyelonephritis or cystitis. Then you urgently need to see a urologist and take a urine test. Do not bring the disease to kidney stones.

Try to tell your doctor clearly what kind of pain you are feeling: pulling and cramping. This will help make the diagnosis faster.

Men

It is important for the doctor to understand exactly where and under what conditions you are experiencing pain. In addition to genital infections, it can be inflammation of the prostate and urinary tract, intestinal lesions.

Such pains indicate chronic prostatitis. They are fraught with problems in sex life and urinary incontinence.
Remember that if you go to the toilet at least once at night, this indicates problems with the genitourinary system.For any pain or discomfort when urinating, see your urologist. Do not bring up to surgery.

If it hurts on the right, then it is appendicitis. Go to the hospital urgently. It can “burst” and then blood poisoning will occur.

Also, pain on the right can indicate a malignant tumor in the intestine. To establish it, an X-ray examination of the intestine is necessary. If pain occurs on the left when walking or shaking in a car, it is also an inflammation of the intestines.

The specialists of the Eleos clinic will answer all your questions. We know how to help you.

Pain during urination in women: lower abdominal pain, pain, frequent nighttime urination

Pain during urination in women is a symptom that may indicate a disease of an infectious or non-infectious nature. When it appears, it is advisable not to postpone the appointment of a urologist, but to get qualified help as soon as possible. This will help you get rid of the discomfort and prevent complications.

Doctors of the Promedika clinic in Belgorod will take a full medical history. To clarify the clinical picture, they will conduct a diagnosis, according to the results of which you will be prescribed treatment.

Causes of pain during urination in women

• Weakening of the immune system. With hypothermia or damage by pathogenic bacteria, diseases occur that accompany pain when urinating in women in the lower abdomen.

• Non-observance of the rules of personal hygiene, unprotected sex.Due to the anatomical features, the female urethra is more susceptible to damage by harmful organisms. The urethra is shorter in women than in men and is in close proximity to the vagina. If the rules of personal hygiene are not followed, the bladder and kidneys become easily infected. The same can occur during the course of STDs;

• allergic reactions. They occur when wearing tight underwear, as well as when using inappropriate cosmetics and hygiene products;

• development of the disease against the background of other pathologies.For example, infections that occur against the background of untreated caries or tonsillitis can spread through the lymphatic and circulatory systems. Against this background, pathologies of the genitourinary tract arise;

• restraining the urge to urinate. All excrement must be excreted by the body in a timely manner. Holding back the urge for a long time can lead to discomfort.

What diseases cause pain during urination in women?

• Cystitis.Inflammation of the bladder is accompanied by severe pain. It is provoked by staphylococcus or E. coli. Due to the increased diameter and shorter length of the urethra, the pathogenesis progresses rapidly. With the development of cystitis, there are frequent urge to urinate and aching pains. When going to the toilet, pain and cramps may occur. At further stages of the development of pathology, false desires arise. The acute form of the disease may be accompanied by hematuria.

• Urethritis – inflammation of the urethra, which accompanies pain during urination in women in the lower abdomen.You may feel a burning sensation at the beginning and at the end of the process. You can also observe an increase in the urge, some of which will be false.

• Urolithiasis. Bladder stones are painful. Discomfort can be felt in the organs of the reproductive system and in the perineum. The intensity of pain increases with movement and during urination. When a solid formation moves along the urethra, it becomes traumatized. In this case, there is a sharp pain when urinating, and blood may also appear in the urine.

• Genital herpes. It can be asymptomatic or be accompanied by a rash on the genitals. The cutting pain of genital herpes occurs at the beginning of urination.

• Chlamydial infection. When the urethra is infected with an infection, the urge to urinate becomes more frequent and is accompanied by discomfort.

• Myometritis and endometritis. They are accompanied by painful sensations.Also, these pathologies occur with frequent nighttime urination in women.

• Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease. In its acute form, it is accompanied by pain when urinating. It is felt especially strongly in the morning hours.

• Pyelonephritis is an inflammatory disease that provokes an infection. In this case, pain occurs when urinating;

• Tumors of the urinary tract.With constant irritation of the bladder and ureters, damage to the nerve plexuses, there are frequent urge to urinate, pain, etc.

• Allergy. It manifests itself as irritation in the perineum and genitals and is accompanied by edema. You may feel discomfort while urinating.

Peculiarities of pain during urination in women

When contacting our clinic, the doctor seeks to clarify the localization of sensations, the ability to give to other areas: in the perineum, in the lower back, in the lower abdomen.The nature of sensations is also taken into account: cutting, aching, sharp (piercing). It also matters at what moment the discomfort occurs: pain after urination, during, when the first urine appears, etc. Other symptoms must be taken into account: itching, redness of tissues, pathological vaginal discharge, etc. It is important to be extremely frank with the attending physician, so that he can receive reliable information about the disease.

At the stage of drawing up a therapy plan, you may additionally need:

• reception of a gynecologist;

• reception of a venereologist;

• reception of an infectious disease specialist;

• reception of an allergist;

• reception of an oncologist and other specialists.

Diagnosis of diseases accompanied by pain during urination in women

To obtain an accurate clinical picture, you may be assigned a comprehensive examination. It includes:

• general urine and blood tests;

• smear on flora from the cervical canal;

• taking tests to confirm the presence of STDs;

• cystoscopy;

• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs, etc.

Treatment

The tactics of therapy is determined by the data obtained in the diagnosis. It can include antibiotic therapy, taking anti-inflammatory, antihistamines, surgical procedures, and physical therapy. The treatment plan depends on the disease, accompanied by pain during urination in women, and the individual characteristics of the patient.

Where to go in case of pain during urination in women?

To get rid of discomfort, improve health and quality of life, contact the medical center “Promedica”.In our clinic, you can get help from specialists with solid clinical experience. According to patients’ reviews, they use only effective treatment regimens.

Do you have any questions? To clarify the price of an appointment or diagnostic procedure, contact us in a convenient way.

90,000 Pain in the lower abdomen in women: possible causes, diagnosis, treatment

Painful sensations in women in the lower abdomen is a rather nonspecific symptom that can be present in a wide variety of diseases of the pelvic organs.

Most often, women associate this with diseases of the female genital area and seek advice from a gynecologist.

As a rule, the occurrence of pain in the lower abdomen is associated with inflammatory and infectious processes occurring in the small pelvis.

Diseases can vary in severity and manifestation, so it is very important not to delay the visit to the doctor.

Of course, these pains can be associated with surgical pathology, but it is important to diagnose and begin treatment in a timely manner.

In our clinic, we admit patients with acute pain without an appointment to provide emergency assistance, make a diagnosis, conduct laboratory and ultrasound diagnostics, and if necessary, hospitalize or prescribe treatment. Also in our clinic we can carry out treatment in a day hospital.

Possible causes of lower abdominal pain associated with gynecological diseases

Factors provoking the onset of pain can be conditionally divided into two groups:

Varieties of pain

The important characteristics of pain include its intensity, localization, concomitant clinical symptoms.First of all, it is worth determining what exactly the pain is associated with (pregnancy, menstruation, etc.). Pain localized in the lower abdomen of a woman can be divided into several types:

• sharp and sharp pain;
• paroxysmal;
• pulsating;
• constant;
• stupid.

Depending on the accompanying symptoms, one can suspect one or another pathological condition in which pain is characteristic:

• dull pain in the lower abdomen, combined with bleeding that has no connection with menstruation, most often occurs in inflammatory processes of the female reproductive system;
• if the pain is accompanied by an increase in temperature – most likely, we are talking about infectious diseases of the small pelvis.The presence of infection is also indicated by pathological discharge from the genital tract;
• on the pathology of the urinary tract indicates pain in the lower abdomen along with urinary disorders;
• about pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract says pain in combination with nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite;
• Severe pain in the lower abdomen on the right, the intensity of which either subsides or increases, is a typical symptom of appendicitis.

The frequency and duration of painful episodes indicate the acute or chronic nature of the existing disease.So, the occurrence of bouts of acute pain, which lasts several hours, may indicate an exacerbation of a chronic disease.

Common diseases accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen

As already mentioned, in women, pain in the lower abdomen can appear for many reasons, but most often this symptom indicates the presence of a gynecological or urological disease. The most common pathologies of the female genitourinary system include:

Inflammation of the uterus and appendages

It begins almost always acutely and is accompanied by an increase in body temperature, pain and signs of general intoxication of the body.

• If there is adnexitis , then the pain is localized in the lower abdomen on the side.
• At endometritis , the pain is localized in the middle.
• With chronic salpingo-oophoritis , the pain is constant, aching.

All inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages are treated with antibiotics, which are prescribed by a gynecologist after a comprehensive examination.

Endometriosis is one of the most common female pathologies, in which the body of the uterus, posterior space, and appendages can be affected.Pain in the lower abdomen with this disease appears before menstruation. The pain syndrome is aggravated by the adhesive process, which often develops with endometriosis.

Uterine fibroids is a benign disease characterized by the formation of a tumor, which, when it reaches a large size, can press on nearby organs, causing pain.

Complications of an ovarian cyst : if there is a cystic formation on the ovary, acute pain may indicate its rupture or torsion.In this case, emergency treatment is required.

Cystitis – inflammation of the bladder, in which there are cutting pains in the area above the pubis, while urination becomes painful.

Ectopic pregnancy is another pathological condition of a woman, in which paroxysmal pain occurs in the lower abdomen, which may be accompanied by bleeding. If the fallopian tube ruptures, the pain will become very sharp and sharp. This condition requires immediate surgical treatment.

Pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy

During pregnancy, many women also experience pain in the lower abdomen. Mild, pulling pains are considered normal for any period of pregnancy. They should be reported to your doctor, but there are usually no serious reasons for concern. If the pain becomes severe, sharp or cramping, you should immediately seek medical help.

Pain in the abdomen in pregnant women can be divided into obstetric and non-obstetric.Obstetric pains include severe pain that occurs when the placenta is detached, as well as the threat of miscarriage. Non-obstetric pain is usually associated with dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract.

What to do with pain in the lower abdomen

If you have been bothered by pains in the lower abdomen for some time, you should not postpone your visit to the clinic, as they can be a symptom of a dangerous disease, fraught with serious complications. To make the correct diagnosis, you have to undergo a comprehensive examination with us, which may include the following types of research:

• general blood test;
• urinalysis;
• Ultrasound of the small pelvis, liver, kidneys;
• Vaginal and cervical swab;
• ECG, CTG

Treatment will be prescribed by our doctor, depending on the identified disease.It is very important to strictly adhere to all recommendations in order to prevent the development of complications and to get rid of the unpleasant pain in the lower abdomen as soon as possible.

If you self-medicate, start taking medications on your own – this can “erase” the picture of the disease and make the correct diagnosis in time.

90,000 reasons, what to do, whether you need to call a doctor

What can hurt

in the stomach on the left?

In the left half of the abdomen, discomfort can occur in a number of pathological conditions.Determining the exact place where it hurts means getting an opportunity to understand the cause of the disease.

• For example, in diseases of the pancreas, pain is concentrated in the upper abdomen. When the tail of the pancreas is affected, the pain syndrome occurs in the left hypochondrium, and can radiate to the lower back, often covering it ¹ . The nature of the pain is different: from minor discomfort, which is often described as “pulling, aching side”, to daily severe pain ² .Pain appears or increases after eating and may be accompanied by other symptoms of pancreatic inflammation, such as nausea, vomiting, and indigestion.
• Diseases of the sigmoid colon are accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen on the left or in the suprapubic region. One of the most common pathologies of this disease is diverticulosis. In the acute course of the process, fever, stool disturbance, flatulence and other symptoms are possible ³ .
• Diseases of the urinary tract, for example, the formation of stones in the ureters (ureterolithiasis).They are defined by pain that can manifest itself in the external genital area, lumbosacral region, inner surface of the right thigh ¹ .
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which develops more often in women than in men. Pain in IBS can range from intense cramping pain to mild discomfort. The characteristic localization is in the lower abdomen, more often in the left iliac region, however, it can extend to almost any part of the abdomen ⁴ .
• In women, pain in the left side of the abdomen can signal diseases of the reproductive organs – adnexitis, endometriosis, ectopic pregnancy and others ⁵ .

Alarms

In some cases, with the appearance of pain in the left abdomen, urgent medical attention is needed. Dangerous symptoms that may indicate problems that require immediate medical attention include ¹ :

• Severe, sharp pain that does not go away for 6 hours or longer
• Constantly increasing intensity of pain syndrome
• Dizziness, weakness
• Decrease in blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Blood in vomit, feces

What to do?

If the above symptoms of anxiety appear, you must immediately call an ambulance.In other situations, you need to routinely consult a general practitioner or gastroenterologist. These doctors will prescribe a comprehensive diagnosis of pathological conditions that are accompanied by abdominal pain on the left. It includes:

• Taking anamnesis
• Examination of the patient
  
• Laboratory diagnostics General, biochemical blood test, general urine test.
• Instrumental diagnostics Plain radiography of the abdominal cavity, fluoroscopy of the stomach, gastroscopy, sigmoidoscopy, ultrasound, colonoscopy.With insufficient information content of these methods, computed tomography or diagnostic laparoscopy ¹ can be prescribed.

How to relieve pain?

For example, by taking antispasmodics. These drugs can help address the underlying cause of abdominal pain, smooth muscle spasm, and pain relief.
At the same time, antispasmodic drugs do not have a direct analgesic effect, therefore, after taking them, the picture of acute pathologies requiring surgical intervention does not change.But taking analgesics for abdominal pain can mask symptoms and aggravate the course of disease ¹ .