Pain on your right side is a common problem that can be due to a variety of minor to serious conditions. Pain on the right side of your belly, or abdomen, is usually related to one of the organs in that area.Pain can become a concern if it is persistent or if it causes intense discomfort. Show
This article will outline the potential causes of pain on your right side. It will also look at signs and symptoms of possible issues, and it will explain when you should seek medical assistance. What can cause right side pain?1269349231 Westend61/Getty ImagesPain on the right side of your abdomen may be sharp or dull and last a short time, often called acute pain, or a long time, known as chronic pain. The pain might start in one place and radiate to another. Symptoms you experience with pain can be very important for you and your doctor in figuring out the potential cause of your pain. They can include nausea, cramping, diarrhea, fever, and constipation. There are many causes of abdominal pain that are related to a number of conditions. Read more about overall abdominal pain here. When to contact a doctorMild abdominal pain that goes away and does not come back may not need treatment. However, talk with your healthcare professional if you are experiencing severe abdominal pain or if it keeps coming back. It is never normal to have abdominal pain, so explain your symptoms fully. Your medical professional will evaluate the issue by considering minor, common conditions against more serious conditions. The location of pain and length of time the pain has persisted will also be important. Serious symptoms for which you should seek medical care include:
Minor conditions that cause right side painThere are many causes of right side pain that are due to minor conditions.
Serious conditions that cause right side painThere are also many causes of right side pain that can indicate a serious underlying condition. Liver conditionsLiver disease, liver cancer, or a liver infection may cause abdominal pain. These conditions may cause pain in the right side of your upper abdomen. Upper right abdominal pain usually feels dull and chronic. Other symptoms can include:
Gallbladder disease or gallstonesBoth gallbladder disease and gallstones may be a source of pain in the upper right abdomen. Symptoms can include:
Cancer, infection, and diseases of the right side of the colonThere are many colon-related diseases and infections that can cause cramp-like pain in the right side of your lower abdomen. Symptoms of these illnesses may include:
AppendicitisAppendicitis causes acute pain that starts in the middle or right side of the abdomen and moves down to the lower right side. The lower right side may be tender and swollen. Other symptoms may include chills, fever, nausea or vomiting, and constipation or diarrhea. Kidney disease, kidney infection, and kidney stonesKidney problems such as infections, kidney stones, or kidney disease can cause acute pain. The pain will be sharp and may move behind the ribs or into the groin. Other symptoms may include:
Pelvic conditions in femalesConditions in a female pelvic area that can cause lower right abdominal pain include ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cyst, and infection. An ectopic pregnancy is a fertilized egg that has attached outside the uterus, typically within one of the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancy pain may be acute and sharp. Other symptoms may include vaginal bleeding and changes in your bowel habits. Pain from an ovarian cyst may come and go. It may be dull and may radiate to the back. Other symptoms may include abnormal and painful periods. A pelvic infection may cause fever and vaginal discharge or bleeding. Blood clot or infection in the right lungA blood clot that moves to the lung is called a pulmonary embolism. Blood clots in the right lung may cause right upper abdominal pain that is sharp, severe, and acute. Other symptoms of a pulmonary embolism may include:
A blood clot or infection in the right lung can also cause abdominal pain on the right side. At-home treatments for right side painA proper diagnosis of the cause of right side pain will need to be made before any treatment can be given. Healthcare professionals may suggest medication in low doses to alleviate the pain until a diagnosis is reached. SummaryPain on your right side can stem from various issues, ranging from minor ailments to serious conditions. It is usually related to one of the organs in that area. You should seek immediate medical care if the pain is severe or if it persists for more than a few days. Does appendicitis feel like pinching?The telltale symptom of appendicitis is a sudden, sharp pain that starts on the right side of your lower abdomen. It may also start near your belly button and then move lower to your right. The pain may feel like a cramp at first, and it may get worse when you cough, sneeze, or move.
When should I be concerned about right side pain?“Appendicitis, or an infection of the appendix, can be a life-threatening condition. Appendicitis is considered a medical emergency, and surgery is required to remove the appendix.” If you notice pain (especially on your right side), fever, vomiting and loss of appetite, get emergency medical attention.
Why do I get random sharp pains on the right side of my stomach?Sharp abdominal pain could be from gas, which can be surprisingly painful, but it also may be a sign of appendicitis, gallstones, a blockage in your intestines, kidney stones, pancreatitis, or other serious issues. If it doesn't go way and you have other symptoms, call your doctor or go to the ER.
What does it mean if I have sharp pains in my lower right abdomen?Appendicitis is what we think of when we have pain in the lower right abdomen. But the pain can be caused by gas, a bowel obstruction, digestion issues, a kidney stone, or other problems. If you have other symptoms like nausea and fever, you should see a doctor or urgent care.
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