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Dull ache right side of abdomen. 16 Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain: From Appendicitis to IBS

What are the common causes of lower right abdominal pain. How can you differentiate between serious and mild conditions causing discomfort in the right side of your abdomen. When should you seek immediate medical attention for abdominal pain.

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Understanding Lower Right Abdominal Pain: Common Causes and Symptoms

Experiencing pain in the lower right side of your abdomen can be concerning, but it’s often not a cause for immediate alarm. This discomfort can stem from various conditions, ranging from mild digestive issues to more serious medical problems. Understanding the potential causes and associated symptoms can help you determine when to seek medical attention.

Common Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain

  • Appendicitis
  • Kidney infection
  • Kidney stones
  • Hernia
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Indigestion
  • Gas
  • Reproductive system issues

While some of these conditions may resolve on their own, others require prompt medical attention. It’s essential to monitor your symptoms and seek help if the pain persists or worsens.

Appendicitis: A Common Culprit of Right-Sided Abdominal Pain

Appendicitis is one of the most frequent causes of severe lower right abdominal pain. This condition occurs when the appendix, a small tube attached to the large intestine, becomes inflamed. The pain typically starts suddenly and intensifies with movement or breathing.

Key Symptoms of Appendicitis

  • Sudden, severe pain in the lower right abdomen
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Fever
  • Bowel irregularities (diarrhea, constipation, or inability to pass gas)

Is appendicitis a medical emergency? Yes, appendicitis often requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated, the inflamed appendix can rupture, leading to life-threatening complications. If you suspect appendicitis, it’s crucial to seek medical care promptly.

Kidney-Related Issues: Infection and Stones

Kidney problems, such as infections and stones, can also cause pain in the lower right abdomen. However, the discomfort is more commonly felt in the back or sides.

Kidney Infection Symptoms

  • Fever and chills
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Frequent urination
  • Burning sensation during urination
  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  • Diarrhea

Can kidney infections cause permanent damage? If left untreated, kidney infections can indeed lead to permanent kidney damage and serious complications. Prompt medical attention is essential if you suspect a kidney infection.

Kidney Stone Symptoms

  • Severe pain in the lower abdomen, back, side, or groin
  • Pain during urination
  • Discolored urine (pink, red, or brown)
  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Frequent urge to urinate
  • Fever and chills (if an infection is present)

Do all kidney stones require medical intervention? Not necessarily. Small kidney stones may pass on their own with proper hydration and pain management. However, larger stones or those causing severe symptoms may require medical treatment.

Hernias: When Body Parts Push Through

A hernia occurs when part of an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Hernias in the abdominal area can cause pain or discomfort in the lower right region.

Common Hernia Symptoms

  • Swelling or bulging in the abdominal area
  • Pain when lifting, laughing, crying, coughing, or straining
  • Feeling of fullness or constipation

Are all hernias dangerous? While not all hernias are immediately dangerous, some can lead to serious complications. It’s important to have any suspected hernia evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A Common Digestive Disorder

IBS is a chronic condition affecting the digestive system. It’s relatively common, affecting up to 12 percent of people in the United States. IBS can cause various symptoms, including abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.

Typical IBS Symptoms

  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Diarrhea or constipation (or alternating between the two)
  • Mucus in the stool

How is IBS diagnosed? IBS is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and the exclusion of other conditions. There’s no single test for IBS, but your doctor may recommend various tests to rule out other digestive disorders.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While many causes of lower right abdominal pain are not severe, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical care. Seek emergency attention if you experience:

  • Sudden, severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pressure or pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Excessive sweating
  • High fever
  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Persistent nausea and vomiting
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
  • Severe abdominal tenderness
  • Unusual abdominal swelling
  • Black or tar-like stools
  • Persistent loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss

Why is prompt medical attention crucial for these symptoms? These symptoms may indicate serious conditions that require immediate treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.

Diagnostic Approaches for Lower Right Abdominal Pain

When you visit a healthcare provider for lower right abdominal pain, they may use various diagnostic tools to determine the underlying cause. These may include:

  • Physical examination
  • Medical history review
  • Blood tests
  • Urine tests
  • Imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds)
  • Endoscopic procedures

How do these diagnostic tools help in identifying the cause of abdominal pain? Each test provides specific information that helps healthcare providers narrow down the potential causes and make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Lower Right Abdominal Pain

Treatment for lower right abdominal pain depends on the underlying cause. Some common approaches include:

Medication

  • Pain relievers
  • Antibiotics for infections
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Antispasmodics for IBS

Lifestyle Changes

  • Dietary modifications
  • Stress management techniques
  • Regular exercise
  • Adequate hydration

Surgical Interventions

  • Appendectomy for appendicitis
  • Hernia repair
  • Removal of kidney stones (if necessary)

Is surgery always necessary for conditions causing lower right abdominal pain? Not always. Many conditions can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. However, some cases, such as severe appendicitis or complicated hernias, may require surgical intervention.

Preventing Lower Right Abdominal Pain

While not all causes of lower right abdominal pain are preventable, you can take steps to reduce your risk of certain conditions:

  • Maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber
  • Stay hydrated
  • Exercise regularly
  • Practice good hygiene to prevent infections
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques
  • Avoid heavy lifting or straining that could lead to hernias
  • Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider

Can a healthy lifestyle completely prevent lower right abdominal pain? While a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of certain conditions, it cannot guarantee the prevention of all causes of abdominal pain. Regular medical check-ups and prompt attention to persistent symptoms are crucial for maintaining overall health.

Understanding the various causes of lower right abdominal pain and recognizing when to seek medical attention can help ensure timely treatment and prevent potential complications. If you experience persistent or severe pain, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and care.

Pain in Lower Right Abdomen: 16 Possible Causes

Pain on the right side of the abdomen can be caused by conditions such as appendicitis, hernia, kidney issues, reproductive system issues, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion, or even gas.


There are many possible reasons for discomfort in your right abdominal region. More often than not, pain in the lower right abdomen is nothing to worry about. It’ll go away on its own in a day or two.

If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, though, you should see a doctor. They can assess your symptoms and make a diagnosis.

If you have lower right abdominal pain, you might be wondering if you need to go to the emergency room.

Most of the time, lower right abdominal pain isn’t serious. You should get immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing sudden, severe abdominal pain, or your abdominal pain is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

  • a feeling of pressure in your chest
  • pain in your chest, jaw, neck, or arm
  • shortness of breath
  • dizziness or lightheadedness
  • difficulty or pain when swallowing
  • sweating
  • fever
  • blood in your vomit or stool
  • persistent nausea and vomiting
  • skin or eye whites that appear yellow (jaundice)
  • severe tenderness when you touch your abdomen
  • unusual swelling of your abdomen
  • black or tar-like stool
  • persistent loss of appetite
  • unusual weight loss

If you notice these symptoms, call 911 or local emergency services or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room. Treatment can help prevent these symptoms from becoming severe or life threatening.

Appendicitis

Your appendix is a small, thin tube that’s attached to your large intestine. When your appendix becomes inflamed, it’s known as appendicitis. This condition is a common cause of pain in the lower right abdomen.

The pain may come on suddenly and get worse when you move or breathe.

Other symptoms of appendicitis can include:

  • loss of appetite
  • nausea or vomiting
  • abdominal swelling
  • fever
  • bowel problems, such as diarrhea, constipation, or being unable to pass gas

The condition often requires immediate medical attention. It’s possible for the inflamed appendix to burst, which can cause life threatening complications. So, if you’re experiencing symptoms of appendicitis, you should see a doctor right away or go to the nearest emergency room.

While antibiotics can clear some cases of appendicitis, surgery is sometimes needed to remove the appendix (appendectomy).

Kidney infection

A kidney infection is caused by bacteria that usually come from your urinary tract. One or both of your kidneys could be affected by the infection.

Although you may feel pain in your lower abdomen, discomfort from a kidney infection more often occurs in your back or sides. You may also feel pain in your groin, but it’s less common.

Other symptoms include:

  • fever
  • chills
  • nausea or vomiting
  • peeing more often than usual
  • feeling like you need to pee, even if you just went
  • pain or a burning feeling when you pee
  • pus or blood in your urine
  • urine that’s cloudy or smells bad
  • diarrhea

When untreated, kidney infections can cause permanent damage and serious complications. If you think you could have a kidney infection, you should see a doctor right away.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are a hard buildup of minerals and salts that can form inside your kidneys. You may not feel any pain if the kidney stones are small. If a large kidney stone begins to move around or pass into the tube that connects your kidney and bladder, you may feel severe pain in your lower abdomen, back, side, or groin.

The intensity and location of the pain may change as the kidney stone shifts and moves through your urinary tract.

Other symptoms include:

  • pain when you pee
  • pink, red, or brown urine
  • urine that’s cloudy or smells bad
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • feeling the constant need to pee
  • peeing more often than usual
  • fevers and chills, if infection is also present

If you have these symptoms, you should see a doctor.

Hernia

A hernia happens when a part of your body pushes through the lining or muscle that holds it in place. Most hernias happen in the abdomen. They can cause pain or discomfort in the affected area.

Other common symptoms include:

  • swelling or bulging on part of your belly
  • pain while lifting, laughing, crying, coughing, or straining
  • feeling full or constipated

Sometimes, a hernia can cause complications. If you have a hernia and any of the following symptoms, get emergency care right away:

  • sudden, severe pain
  • inability to pass gas (fart) or have a bowel movement
  • vomiting
  • a change in the feeling or position of your hernia, for example, if it becomes harder, or you can no longer push it back in

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common long-term condition that affects your digestive system. It affects up to 12 percent of people in the United States.

IBS can cause:

  • abdominal pain
  • changes to your bowel movements, in the form of diarrhea, constipation, or both
  • bloating
  • the feeling that you haven’t fully completed a bowel movement
  • mucus in the stool

Doctors don’t know exactly what causes IBS, though it appears to be related to interactions between your gut and your brain.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

IBS shouldn’t be confused with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a group of serious digestive disorders that cause changes in bowel tissue and increase your risk of colorectal cancer.

There are two types of IBD: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Both conditions cause inflammation within your digestive tract, which can lead to abdominal pain.

IBD can also cause:

  • severe diarrhea
  • constipation
  • the feeling that you need to pass stool, even when you’ve just gone
  • the feeling that you haven’t finishing passing stool
  • weight loss
  • nausea and vomiting
  • fever
  • blood in your stool

IBD can lead to life threatening complications if left untreated. You should see a doctor immediately if you notice symptoms of IBD.

Indigestion

Indigestion, or dyspepsia, is a group of digestive symptoms. It typically happens after you eat or drink something, but it can happen at other times too. Pain usually occurs in the upper abdomen, though it may also be felt lower down. It may feel sharp, dull, or like burning.

Symptoms of indigestion also include:

  • bloating
  • feeling unusually full after eating a small amount
  • nausea
  • gas
  • burping
  • food or bitter-tasting fluids coming back up

Mild indigestion should go away fairly quickly and can usually be treated at home. If symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, you should see a doctor to rule out underlying digestive issues.

Gas

Intestinal gas is air and other gases found in your entire digestive tract. It’s often caused by food that’s not broken down completely until it reaches your colon.

The more undigested food present, the more gas your body will produce. As gas builds up, it can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and a “knotted” feeling in your stomach.

Burping and passing gas (farting) usually provide relief. In fact, it’s typical for a person to expel gas up to 30 times a day.

However, excessive gas can sometimes be a symptom of a digestive disorder, such as IBS, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or lactose intolerance.

Intestinal gas can also happen from time to time when you swallow more air than usual, for example, due to overeating, chewing gum, or smoking.

Menstrual cramps

Menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhea, are a symptom of menstruation. They can happen before or during your period. The cramps are most often felt on either or both sides of the lower abdomen, which is where your uterus is contracting to get rid of its lining.

Along with pain, other symptoms can include:

  • nausea or vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • headaches
  • dizziness

Endometriosis

Although cramps are a common symptom of menstruation, they can also be caused by an underlying issue such as endometriosis. Endometriosis is a long-term (chronic) condition where cells that usually line the uterus, called endometrial cells, grow outside the uterus.

In addition to severe cramps and lower abdominal pain, endometriosis can cause:

  • pain during sex
  • pain during peeing or bowel movements
  • heavy periods

Endometriosis can cause significant symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to infertility. If you suspect endometriosis may be the reason for your abdominal pain, see a doctor. The sooner the condition can be treated, the less likely complications are.

Ovarian cyst

Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid found on the ovary. Many cysts don’t cause pain or discomfort, and they may eventually disappear on their own. A large ovarian cyst, especially if it ruptures, can lead to serious symptoms.

These include:

  • dull or sharp lower abdomen pain
  • full or heavy feeling in your abdomen
  • pain during sex or exercise

You should see a doctor right away if you have sudden and severe abdominal pain, or if your pain is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:

  • fever
  • vomiting
  • cold and clammy skin
  • rapid breathing
  • weakness

A ruptured ovarian cyst can be a life threatening condition if it isn’t treated promptly.

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus.

In addition to abdominal pain, symptoms can include:

  • vaginal bleeding or brown discharge
  • pain where your shoulder ends and your arm begins
  • painful peeing or bowel movements

If the ectopic pregnancy ruptures your fallopian tube, you may also experience:

  • dizziness
  • fatigue
  • sudden paleness
  • nausea

A ruptured fallopian tube is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is often caused by a bacterial infection, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Many of the infections that cause PID are transmitted during sex, but not all, such as bacterial vaginosis.

PID can cause pain in your lower abdomen, as well as:

  • unusual vaginal discharge that may have a bad odor
  • fever
  • nausea or vomiting
  • pain during sex
  • burning when you pee

Ovarian torsion

Ovarian torsion happens when your ovary, and sometimes fallopian tube, becomes twisted, cutting off the organ’s blood supply. The condition is also known as adnexal torsion, and can cause severe lower abdominal pain.

Other symptoms include:

  • nausea or vomiting
  • abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
  • fever

These symptoms may come and go if the ovary twists and untwists. Ovarian torsion is a medical emergency, and surgery is often required to untwist the ovary.

Inguinal hernia

An inguinal hernia happens when fat or part of the small intestine pushes through a weak part of your lower abdomen. It’s the most common type of hernia. People assigned male at birth are most likely to experience this condition.

If you have an inguinal hernia, you may notice a bulge in your groin area between your thigh and lower abdomen, or in your scrotum.

Other symptoms include heaviness, aching, or burning in the groin. Your discomfort may be worse when straining, lifting, coughing, or standing. You may feel better when you rest.

Sometimes the hernia can become stuck or strangulated. This can be a life threatening condition. If you notice the following changes, get emergency medical care:

  • the hernia bulge suddenly gets larger
  • the hernia bulge stops going back into your abdomen (if it used to go back in)
  • fever
  • redness around the hernia
  • a sudden increase in pain
  • bloating, nausea, or vomiting

Testicular torsion

Testicular torsion happens when your testicle twists around the spermatic cord, which is a bundle of tissues that runs through your abdomen. This twisting can cut off blood flow to your testicle, leading to sudden and severe pain and swelling in your scrotum.

Other symptoms include:

  • unusual redness or darkening of your scrotum
  • nausea or vomiting
  • uneven testicle position
  • fever

Testicular torsion usually requires emergency surgery.

You should make an appointment to see a doctor if your lower right abdominal pain lasts more than a few days or causes you any concern. You can connect to a physician in your area using the Healthline FindCare tool.

In some cases, abdominal pain can have a serious underlying cause. If you have severe symptoms, get emergency care right away.

Mild cases of abdominal pain can usually be treated at home. For example, changing your eating habits can help prevent gas and indigestion, while certain pain relievers can help control menstrual cramps.

Abdominal pain in adults – Better Health Channel

About abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is pain felt anywhere from below your ribs to your pelvis. It is also known as tummy pain or stomach pain. The abdomen houses many organs, including your stomach, liver, pancreas, small and large bowel, and reproductive organs. There are also major blood vessels in the abdomen.

Serious causes of abdominal pain include appendicitis and pregnancy problems. However, most abdominal pain is harmless and goes away without surgery.

Most people only need relief from their symptoms. Sometimes, abdominal pain can stop and the cause will never be known, or the cause may becomes more obvious with time.

When to see a doctor about abdominal pain

Go straight to your doctor or the emergency department of the nearest hospital if you have any of the following:

  • severe pain
  • pain lasting for several hours
  • pain or vaginal bleeding if you are pregnant
  • pain in your scrotum if you are a male
  • pain and vomiting or shortness of breath
  • pain and vomiting blood
  • blood in your bowel motions or urine
  • pain that spreads to your chest, neck or shoulder
  • fever and sweats
  • become pale and clammy
  • unable to pass urine
  • unable to move your bowels or pass gas
  • any other concerns.

Symptoms of abdominal pain in adults

The type of pain can vary greatly. When abdominal pain occurs, it can:

  • be sharp, dull, stabbing, cramp-like, twisting or fit many other descriptions
  • be brief, come and go in waves, or it can be constant
  • make you throw up (vomit)
  • make you want to stay still or make you so restless that you pace around trying to find ‘just the right position’
  • vary from a minor problem to one needing urgent surgery.

Causes of abdominal pain in adults

There are many reasons why you may have pain in your abdomen. People often worry about appendicitis, gallstones, ulcers, infections and pregnancy problems. Doctors also worry about these, as well as many other conditions.

Abdominal pain may not come from the abdomen. Some surprising causes include heart attacks and pneumonia, conditions in the pelvis or groin, some skin rashes like shingles, and problems with stomach muscles like a strain. The pain may occur along with problems in passing urine or with bowel motions, or period problems.

With so many organs and structures in the abdomen, it can be hard for a doctor to be absolutely sure about the cause of your problem.

The doctor will ask you several questions and then examine you carefully. The doctor may perform no further tests. The cause of your pain may be quite clearly not serious. Another scenario may be that the doctor is unable to find a cause, but the pain gets better within hours or days. The doctor will assess whether the pain requires surgery or admission to hospital.

Diagnosis of abdominal pain in adults

To diagnose abdominal pain, doctors and healthcare professionals are likely to ask you the following questions:

Where is the pain?

Doctors and other health professionals will first ask you where you feel the pain. Pain above the umbilicus (belly button) but below the ribcage on the right may be gallstone pain. Gallstone pain may spread (or radiate) to the right shoulder or the back.

Pain from kidney stones is felt in the right side or left side, more in the back than the front of the abdomen, and tends to radiate downwards into the groin on the same side.

Pain in the very centre of the abdomen is more likely to be coming from the intestines, however in males, testicular pain is also felt in the centre of the abdomen.

When did the pain start?

Abdominal pain is ‘acute’ if present for less than a day or 2, ‘persistent’ if longer than a day or 2, and ‘chronic’ if present for more than 2 weeks.

How severe is the pain?

Health professionals will usually ask you to rate the pain or give a pain score out of 10. Mild pain might be rated 3 to 4, noticeable and unpleasant (like a toothache) but not severe enough to interfere with usual activity.

Severe pain stops all other activities (like labour pain in childbirth). Gallstone or kidney stone pain is often severe.

Does the pain come and go?

Abdominal pain that comes and goes in waves is called colic, and comes from the contraction of a hollow organ such as the bowel, the gallbladder or the urinary tract. Pain from other organs may be constant – for example stomach ulcers, pancreatitis or pain from an abdominal infection.

Have you had this pain before?

Gallstone pain and kidney stone pain will often recur every few months.

Period pain can be severe and may indicate an underlying problem such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, while pain in the middle of the menstrual cycle can be due to an ovarian follicle.

What events led up to the pain?

This is an important question as it might point to the cause of the pain. Examples are trauma such as a sporting injury or car accident, recent medication such as anti-inflammatories or antibiotics, or heavier than usual alcohol intake, which might trigger pancreatitis.

Are there associated features?

Blood in the urine, together with flank pain (pain between the pelvis and the ribs), point to kidney stones.

Vomiting with pain in the centre of the abdomen can point to a small bowel obstruction. Severe constipation with pain in the side may point to a large bowel obstruction.

Do you have a history of previous surgery or radiation therapy to the abdomen?

Recent surgery to the bowel or other abdominal organs might result in complications, such as infection, that could cause abdominal pain.

Scarring to the tissue surrounding the bowel, or adhesions, can be caused by surgery or radiation therapy and trigger bowel obstruction.

Examinations and tests

If examinations and tests are needed, these may include:

  • a rectal exam to check for hidden blood or other problems
  • a check of the penis and scrotum
  • a pelvic exam to check for problems in the womb (uterus), fallopian tubes and ovaries, and a pregnancy test
  • a blood test to look for infection (which causes a raised white cell count) or bleeding (which causes a low blood count or haemoglobin)
  • other blood tests may look at enzymes in the liver, pancreas and heart to sort out which organ may be involved
  • a urine test to look for a urine infection or blood (if there is a kidney stone)
  • an ECG (an electrical tracing of the heart) to rule out a heart attack
  • other tests, including x-ray, ultrasound or CT scan
  • an endoscopy – an examination where a flexible tube with a light and video camera at the tip is used to examine some internal organs without the need for surgery. Different names are used depending on which organ is being looked at
  • sometimes you may be referred to another doctor to help find the cause of the problem.

If you do have tests, the doctor will explain the results to you. Some results may take a number of days to come back and these will be sent to your local doctor.

Treatment for abdominal pain in adults

Your treatment depends on what is causing your pain, but may include:

  • Pain relief – your pain may not go away fully with painkillers, but it should ease.
  • Fluids – you may have fluids given into a vein to correct fluid loss and rest your bowel.
  • Medicines – for example, you may be given something to stop you vomiting.
  • Fasting – your doctor may ask you not to eat or drink anything until the cause of your pain is known.

Taking care of yourself at home

Most abdominal pain goes away without special treatment. Be guided by your doctor, but there are some things you can do to help ease the pain, including:

  • Place a hot water bottle or heated wheat bag on your abdomen.
  • Soak in a warm bath. Take care not to scald yourself.
  • Drink plenty of clear fluids such as water.
  • Reduce your intake of coffee, tea and alcohol as these can make the pain worse.
  • When you are allowed to eat again, start with clear liquids, then progress to bland foods such as crackers, rice, bananas or toast. Your doctor may advise you to avoid certain foods.
  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Try over-the-counter antacids, to help reduce some types of pain.
  • Take mild painkillers such as paracetamol. Please check the packet for the right dose. Avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs unless advised to take them by a doctor. These drugs can make some types of abdominal pain worse.

Where to get help

  • In an emergency, always call triple zero (000)
  • Your GP (doctor)
  • NURSE-ON-CALL Tel. 1300 606 024 – for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days)
  • The emergency department of your nearest hospital

Why did the pain appear in the right side and what to do about it?

A person’s frequent habit of not paying attention to pain can be fatal, because it can be the first signal of a disease: serious or even fatal. The reasons why pain appeared in the right side and when it is worth contacting a gastroenterologist in Zaporozhye are further in the article.

1. Appendicitis

Inflamed appendicitis gives the first signal about itself precisely pain in the right side . It is easy to confuse with a simple poisoning “I ate something wrong”, but in reality it is several times more serious. The solution is to call an ambulance. Especially if, in addition to pain on the right side of the abdomen, you have a fever, nausea and vomiting, and bloating.

2. Ovarian cyst

Accompanied by pain on the right (pain in the ovary) or in the pelvic area. In addition, irregular menstruation, pain during PA, frequent trips to the toilet are possible as a result. In this case, a consultation with a gynecologist is necessary.

3. Constipation

4. Liver disease

Pain can appear even when the organ is so enlarged that the capsule begins to stretch.

5. Menstruation

6. Irritable bowel

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) is a chronic disease that will constantly remind of itself. The reason is the gases that collect in the intestines. To relieve periodic pain, you should consult with a gastroenterologist.

7. Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease can also cause pain, cramps and swelling. There is also weight loss, bloody diarrhea and a feeling of weakness. In this case, you should immediately contact a gastroenterologist so as not to start the case.

8. Ectopic pregnancy

Pain: sharp, stabbing. Call an ambulance immediately.

9. Urinary canal infection

In addition to abdominal pain possible: burning during urination, pain in the lower abdomen and convulsions. For consultation, we advise you to make an appointment with a urologist.

10. Stones in the gallbladder

They can also cause pain in the abdomen on the right side . Namely – constantly increasing on the right in the upper part, extending to the chest, shoulder and between the shoulder blades.

11. Kidney stones

This is a severe pain in the right lower abdomen 0004 . It has the character of spasms: it intensifies, then decreases. You can solve the problem with the help of a urologist.

12. Duodenal ulcer

This is a serious disease that also requires immediate consultation with a gastroenterologist. In addition to pain, bloating, heartburn, belching, and a feeling of heaviness can also manifest themselves.

As a reminder: any, in your opinion, unprovoked, recurring or severe pain in the right side requires a consultation with a doctor. Specialists in ambulance, gastroenterologist, urologist, gynecologist, ultrasound doctor. Do not start and do not postpone – your health will not keep silence and patience, but only spoil it!

What to do if the right side of the abdomen hurts?

If you have pain in the right side of your abdomen, in this article you will find information about the possible causes and advice on what to do. Find out when to see a doctor and what steps you can take to relieve pain.

Pain in the right side of the abdomen can be caused by various causes and requires attention and further examination. The sensation of pain can be sharp or dull, constant or paroxysmal. In some cases, it may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, or changes in appetite.

One of the possible causes of pain in the right side of the abdomen may be appendicitis. This is an inflammation of the appendix, which is located in the lower right side of the abdomen. Symptoms of appendicitis may include sharp pain in the right side of the abdomen, vomiting, nausea, and fever. If you suspect appendicitis, you should immediately consult a doctor, as this condition requires surgical intervention.

Another possible cause of pain in the right side of the abdomen may be cholecystitis – inflammation of the gallbladder. Cholecystitis can cause sharp or dull pain in the right side of the abdomen, especially after eating, as well as nausea, vomiting, and yellowness of the skin and eyes. If you suspect cholecystitis, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of pain in the right side of the abdomen

Pain in the right side of the abdomen can be caused by various causes, and their identification can be important for making the correct diagnosis and prescribing the appropriate treatment. Here are some of the possible causes:

  1. Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix can cause sharp pain in the right side of the abdomen. This condition requires urgent medical attention.
  2. Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder can lead to pain in the right side of the abdomen, especially after a meal rich in fat.
  3. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause acute or chronic pain in the right side of the abdomen.
  4. Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver may cause discomfort or pain in the right side of the abdomen.
  5. Colitis: Inflammation of the colon can cause pain in the right side of the abdomen, especially in the lower part.
  6. Hernia: Prolapse of organs through weaknesses in the abdominal muscles can cause pain in the right side of the abdomen.
  7. Urolithiasis: The presence of kidney or bladder stones can cause severe pain that may radiate to the right side of the abdomen.
  8. Duodenal ulcer: Duodenal ulcer may cause pain in the right side of the abdomen, especially after eating.

If you have pain in the right side of your abdomen, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, fever, or blood in your stool, it is important to seek medical help to determine the cause and get the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of pain in the right side of the abdomen

Pain in the right side of the abdomen can be caused by various causes and accompanied by a variety of symptoms. It can be acute or chronic, constant or paroxysmal.

One of the most common symptoms of pain in the right side of the abdomen is a feeling of heaviness or pressure. The patient may describe this pain as sharp, stabbing, or aching. In some cases, the pain may radiate to other areas of the abdomen, back, or shoulders.

Another symptom associated with pain in the right side of the abdomen may be nausea and vomiting. The patient may experience food aversion or loss of appetite. Digestive problems such as heartburn, bloating, or constipation may also occur.

Sometimes pain in the right side of the abdomen may be accompanied by changes in urination or stool. The patient may notice a change in the color of urine or feces, as well as the appearance of blood or mucus in them.

To determine the exact cause of pain in the right side of the abdomen, it is necessary to consult a doctor. They will do a physical exam, ask questions about other symptoms, and may order additional tests, such as blood and urine tests, an abdominal ultrasound, or a CT scan.

When to see a doctor

Pain in the right side of the abdomen can be a sign of various diseases and conditions. In most cases, it is not serious and passes quickly. However, there are situations when pain requires a visit to the doctor.

If pain in the right side of the abdomen is accompanied by severe cramping, sharp increase or does not go away for a long time, this may be a sign of a serious illness, such as appendicitis or pancreatitis. In this case, you should immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

You should also see a doctor if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, loose stools or general feeling unwell. This may be a sign of an infectious disease or other serious conditions that require medical attention.

If pain occurs after an injury or exercise, you should also consult a doctor. This may be a sign of internal organ or muscle damage requiring specialized treatment.

In any case, if the right side of the abdomen hurts and causes anxiety or anxiety, it is better to consult a doctor for advice and a professional assessment of the condition.

Home remedies for pain in the right side of the abdomen

Pain in the right side of the abdomen can be caused by various causes, such as disorders of the digestive system, problems with the gallbladder or appendix. If you have this kind of pain, there are several home remedies that can help relieve the discomfort and make you feel better.

The first step for pain in the right side of the abdomen is rest. Try to get into a comfortable position and relax. Avoid strenuous exercise and exercise, which can make the pain worse.

If your right side pain is accompanied by gas and bloating, you can try some home remedies to relieve it. For example, you can drink a cup of ginger or mint tea, which have a calming effect on the digestive system. It is also helpful to eat foods rich in fiber, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, to improve intestinal motility and prevent constipation.

If you are experiencing pain in the right side of your abdomen due to gallbladder problems, eating a diet rich in lean foods may help. Avoid spicy and fatty foods, as well as alcohol. It is also important to drink enough fluids to prevent the formation of gallstones.

If the pain in the right side becomes intense and is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, fever or bloody stools, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Only a professional medical examination can determine the exact cause of the pain and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Prevention of pain in the right side of the abdomen

To prevent pain in the right side of the abdomen, it is recommended to follow a few simple rules:

  1. Proper nutrition: Avoid eating fatty and heavy foods that can overload the liver and gallbladder. Prefer light and digestible foods such as vegetables, fruits, and low-fat dairy products.
  2. Regular physical activity: Maintain an active lifestyle, play sports or exercise. This will help strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve overall organ function.
  3. Avoid stressful situations: Stress can cause spasms and disturbances in the digestive system. Try to take regular rest, relax and find time for yourself.
  4. Correct body position: When sitting and walking, maintain correct posture, do not twist the body and do not bend over. This will help to avoid distortions of the internal organs and reduce the risk of pain in the right side of the abdomen.

If you experience regular pain in the right side of your abdomen, see your doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Following these guidelines will help you prevent pain and keep your digestive system healthy.

Treatment of pain in the right side of the abdomen

Pain in the right side of the abdomen can be caused by various causes, such as inflammation of the appendix, cholelithiasis, pancreatitis, stomach ulcers and others. Treatment of pain in the right side of the abdomen depends on its cause and may include both conservative methods and surgical intervention.

If the cause of pain in the right side of the abdomen is associated with inflammation of the appendix, you should immediately consult a doctor for an operation to remove the appendix. This can prevent the development of complications such as peritonitis.

In the case of gallstones, treatment may include a low-fat diet and medications to help dissolve the stones. In some cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder may be required.

In pancreatitis, it is important to follow a strict diet that excludes alcohol and fatty foods. Medications are prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

If pain in the right side of the abdomen is caused by a stomach ulcer, your doctor may prescribe drugs to reduce stomach acid and antibiotics to treat the infection, if present.

In some cases, surgery may be needed to treat the cause of pain in the right side of the abdomen. For example, with an intestinal obstruction or tumor, the affected part of the intestine may need to be removed.

It is important to see a doctor if pain in the right side of the abdomen becomes intense, does not go away after a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, or change in stool. Only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis of pain in the right side of the abdomen

Pain in the right side of the abdomen can be a sign of various diseases and conditions. To determine the cause of pain, diagnostics is necessary, which includes a number of methods and studies.

The doctor may start the diagnosis by taking a history, that is, asking questions about the nature of the pain, its duration, association with eating or physical activity. This will help identify possible causes of pain and narrow the scope of research.

One of the methods of diagnosis is a physical examination. The doctor may palpate the right side of the abdomen to determine the presence of pathological changes or palpable masses.

Laboratory tests may be ordered for a more accurate diagnosis. The blood may be tested for inflammatory markers or infection. Urine and stool tests may also be ordered to detect other pathologies.

For a more detailed study of the abdominal organs, instrumental examinations can be prescribed. These include ultrasound, radiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. These methods allow the doctor to see the internal structures of organs and identify the presence of pathologies.

In some cases, endoscopic examinations such as gastroscopy or colonoscopy may be required. These methods allow you to view the internal structures of organs and take a biopsy for further research.

Diagnosis of pain in the right side of the abdomen is a multi-process and complex process that requires the use of various methods and studies. Only after the diagnosis, the doctor will be able to determine the cause of the pain and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Q&A:

Why can the right side of the abdomen hurt?

There can be several causes of pain in the right side of the abdomen. This may be due to problems with the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, appendix, intestines, or kidneys. Also, pain can be caused by various infections or inflammatory processes.

What symptoms accompany pain in the right side of the abdomen?

Symptoms associated with pain in the right side of the abdomen may include: a feeling of heaviness or fullness, nausea, vomiting, change in appetite, fever, change in skin or eye color, problems with urination, etc.

When should you see a doctor if you have pain in the right side of your abdomen?

If pain in the right side of the abdomen does not go away within a few hours or gets worse, if the accompanying symptoms become more intense or new ones appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. Also, if the pain is accompanied by severe or unusual symptoms, such as loss of consciousness or heavy bleeding, immediate medical attention is required.

What diagnostic methods can be used to identify the causes of pain in the right side of the abdomen?

Various diagnostic methods can be used to identify causes of pain in the right side of the abdomen, including a physical examination, blood and urine tests, ultrasound, computed tomography, x-rays, and endoscopy.

What to do if the right side of the abdomen hurts?

If the right side of the abdomen hurts, it is recommended to remain calm, avoid physical activity, take analgesics to relieve pain (but do not abuse them) and immediately consult a doctor to determine the cause of pain and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Important points for pain in the right side of the abdomen

1. Pay attention to the nature of the pain. If the right side of the abdomen hurts, it is important to determine how this pain manifests itself. It can be a sharp, stabbing, dull or pulling pain. Also pay attention to the intensity of the pain and its duration.

2. Assess any accompanying symptoms. In addition to pain, look for other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, and trouble stooling or urinating. These symptoms may indicate serious problems in the body.

3. Check for possible causes of pain in the right side of the abdomen. Pain in the right side of the abdomen can be caused by various causes, such as appendicitis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, stomach ulcers, intestinal obstruction and other diseases. It is important to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

4. Follow the diet. If you have pain in the right side of your abdomen, it is recommended that you watch your diet. Avoid fatty, spicy and heavy foods that can stress the digestive system. Increase your intake of fiber-rich foods to support normal bowel function.

5. Do not self-medicate. For pain in the right side of the abdomen, it is not recommended to self-medicate.