Have you ever felt pain in the right side of the abdomen?Abdominal pain is a frequent complaint, and it can be troubling when it happens on the right side. The right side of the abdomen houses several organs, and pain in this location can indicate a variety of underlying problems.
It May Be Appendicitis
Appendicitis is one of the most well-known causes of right-sided abdominal pain. It presents with pain that starts around the navel and then shifts to the lower right side.
“Pain tends to build and intensify quickly over the period of 24 hours. It requires immediate medical intervention. If left untreated, it can burst your appendix. This is a potentially lethal issue”, said Dr Manu Shankar, Director of Minimal Invasive and General Surgery, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad.
May Indicate Gallbladder Issues
Problems with the gallbladder, such as gallstones or inflammation (cholecystitis), can cause pain in the upper right abdomen. This pain often occurs after meals and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Gallstones are hard bile chemical deposits that form inside the gallbladder and biliary ducts. Gallbladder stones cause significant abdominal pain in the right side and should be notified as soon as possible, according to Dr K N Srivastava, Director and Head of Department, General And Minimal Access Surgery, BLK Hospital, Delhi.
Conditions Related To Liver
Liver-related conditions, such as hepatitis or liver abscess, can cause discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. Also, symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, and dark urine.
Liver conditions vary in severity. Some may be mild and manageable with medication and lifestyle changes, while others may require more extensive treatment.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can cause severe pain that radiates from the back to the lower right abdomen. Pain may come in waves and be associated with blood in the urine, nausea, and frequent urination.
Kidney stones can be incredibly painful but are generally not life-threatening. However, they should be treated to relieve discomfort and prevent complications.
Intestinal Issues
According to Web Md, right-sided abdominal pain can result from various intestinal problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, or diverticulitis. These conditions may cause abdominal cramping, changes in bowel habits, and bloating.
Management and treatment depend on the specific intestinal condition. While some can be controlled with dietary modifications and medication, others may require more extensive medical care.
Muscle Strain or Injury
Sometimes, pain in the right side of the abdomen may be due to muscle strain or injury. This pain is usually sharp and localised.
Muscle strains or injuries can often be managed with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Serious injuries may require medical evaluation.
Pain in the right side of the abdomen can result from various causes, ranging from relatively benign issues like muscle strain to more serious conditions like appendicitis or ectopic pregnancy.
It's important not to ignore persistent or severe abdominal pain and to seek medical attention when needed, as timely diagnosis and treatment can be vital for your health and well-being. Always consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate care.