What could be causing pain in the lower right abdomen near the hip bone? Discover 19 possible causes, from indigestion to appendicitis, and learn about their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Understanding Pain in the Lower Right Abdomen Near the Hip Bone

Pain in the lower right abdomen near the hip bone can have a variety of causes, ranging from minor digestive issues to more serious medical conditions. It’s important to understand the potential causes and their associated symptoms to determine when to seek medical attention. In this comprehensive article, we will explore 19 potential causes of this type of abdominal pain, providing an overview of each condition, its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Less Serious Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain

Many of the less serious causes of lower right abdominal pain are temporary and may resolve without any specific treatment. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.

Indigestion

Indigestion is the abdominal pain and feelings of fullness and nausea that result from difficulty digesting something. Possible causes include eating too much or too quickly, consuming fatty or spicy foods, or experiencing anxiety. Symptoms may also include nausea, vomiting, and heartburn.

Gas

Gas in the intestines is usually caused by bacteria in the digestive tract or by swallowing too much air. This can lead to lower abdominal pain as the gas moves through the intestine, as well as feelings of bloating or fullness and the passing of gas.

Constipation

Constipation is the infrequent or difficult passage of stool. In addition to abdominal pain, symptoms may include straining during bowel movements, hard or lumpy stools, and having three or fewer bowel movements per week.

Muscle Pull and Strain

A strained or pulled abdominal muscle can cause sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty flexing the muscle or standing up straight. This is typically the result of a sports injury or accident.

Muscle Spasm

A muscle spasm is an unintentional, uncomfortable contraction of a muscle. Abdominal muscle spasms can be caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or straining the muscles during exercise.

Gastroenteritis

Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, often caused by a bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection, can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and other symptoms.

Gastritis

Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be caused by a bacterial infection or weaknesses in the stomach lining. In addition to lower abdominal pain, symptoms may include nausea and vomiting.

Serious Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain

Some of the more serious causes of pain in the lower right abdomen near the hip bone may require surgery or long-term medical treatment. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for these conditions.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is the inflammation and potential rupture of the appendix, a small pouch extending from the large intestine. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal swelling, in addition to the lower right abdominal pain. Appendicitis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are small crystals that form in the kidneys and can cause intense pain in the side of the abdomen, as well as blood in the urine, painful urination, nausea, chills, and fever.

Kidney Infection

A kidney infection, often starting as a urinary tract infection, can cause abdominal pain in addition to other symptoms such as fever, chills, and nausea.

Female-Specific Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain

Certain conditions that can cause lower right abdominal pain are specific to women.

Menstrual Pain

Cramps and discomfort during menstruation can lead to pain in the lower right abdomen, as well as other areas of the abdomen.

Ovarian Cyst

Ovarian cysts, fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries, can cause lower abdominal pain, especially if they rupture or become twisted.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs that can lead to lower abdominal pain, as well as fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, and pain during intercourse.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing chronic pelvic pain and lower abdominal discomfort.

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy, in which the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, can cause severe lower abdominal pain and is a medical emergency.

Male-Specific Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain

While many of the causes of lower right abdominal pain can affect both men and women, there are a few conditions that are more specific to men.

Testicular Torsion

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency in which the testicle twists, cutting off blood supply. This can cause severe lower abdominal and groin pain, as well as nausea and vomiting.

If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain in the lower right abdomen near the hip bone, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive the appropriate treatment. By understanding the potential causes and their associated symptoms, you can be better prepared to advocate for your health and seek the necessary medical attention.