The abdomen is packed with essential organs, and each organ has a special role in keeping you healthy. Because your abdomen houses a lot of important organs, feeling pain on the right side of your stomach can be worrying. Right-sided abdominal pain can mean a number of things. Identifying why you might be feeling pain will help you get relief and understand your body’s warning signals indicating a deeper issue.
Paying close attention to your specific symptoms, type of pain, and its location is key for receiving prompt treatment to prevent complications. Most importantly, if your abdominal pain is severe, it’s smart to check in with your doctor to rule out urgent issues like appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, ulcers, or kidney stones.
Appendicitis is a condition where your appendix, a small organ located where your small and large intestines meet, becomes inflamed and requires immediate medical attention. Experiencing a sharp pain near your navel that shifts to your lower right abdomen might be a sign of appendicitis.
Appendicitis symptoms include:
Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, an organ tucked away on your right side, just under your liver.
Gallstone symptoms include:
While some gallstones can be managed, others might require surgical intervention, like a cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal). If you think you have a gallstone, prompt medical evaluation is essential.
Stomach ulcers happen when sores develop on your stomach lining due to acid damage.
Stomach ulcer symptoms include:
Treatment for stomach ulcers often involves medication to reduce acid and heal the ulcer, and in some cases, antibiotics if there’s an infection involved.
If you’re feeling discomfort on your right side, it could be constipation. This common issue occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or stools become hard and difficult to pass.
Constipation symptoms include:
Constipation can often be managed with over-the-counter remedies, increased fiber intake, and staying hydrated. If the pain persists or is severe, especially after bowel movements, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor to rule out a more serious condition.
Right-sided abdominal pain can be related to kidney stones or an infection. The pain often has a distinct character and is accompanied by other telltale signs.
Symptoms indicating a kidney issue:
Kidney stones may pass on their own, but some cases require medical intervention. Kidney infections need prompt treatment to prevent further complications.
Sometimes, the pain in your abdomen comes and goes. While this intermittent pain may not be constant, it is still worth paying attention to. It could be a signal from your body about other underlying conditions, including:
Experiencing pain on your right side could be something minor, but it’s always better to talk to your doctor to be safe. Even if it’s not always there, right side pain that comes and goes shouldn’t be ignored.
If you’re feeling pain, schedule an appointment. We can help you figure out what’s happening and get you back to feeling great.
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