At the outset, we would like to point out that the article is only an overview and encourage you to visit a specialist for any worrisome pain. As you know – abdominal pains happen relatively often. If you feel only minor discomfort, once in a while – you probably don’t need to worry about it that much. After all, it could be indigestion or bloating. It is enough to lie down for a while, drink warm tea and most likely the abdominal pain will simply go away. However, there are situations where reaction time is important. So when should you immediately go to the hospital?
Pain on the right side of the abdomen
When your abdomen hurts you immediately lose strength. No wonder – this is one of the least pleasant pains. If you feel mild indigestion from time to time – you do not need to be overly concerned about it. However, the moment the abdominal pain is strong, sudden and does not subside, it is worth knowing what is wrong with your body and when you should see a doctor or go to the hospital. We have already written an article about the left side of the abdomen. Therefore, it is time to learn something about its right side.
What is located on the right side of the abdomen?
The pain felt on this side relates to the organs that are located there. Therefore, it is good to know what these organs are in general and what ailments from their side threaten us. On the right side of the abdomen we can find:
- liver,
- appendix,
- gallbladder,
- parts of the intestines,
- duodenum.
Pain in the right side – causes
The causes of pain in the right side, will indicate different ailments depending on the type of pain experienced.
- Stabbing pain in the right side, also can mean kidney stones, but not only, also gallstones, cholecystitis, liver enlargement or even pneumonia.
- Dull pain in the right side, can indicate kidney stones or liver steatosis, which will be the result of an inadequate diet or alcohol abuse.
- Sharp pain in the right side is usually a symptom of inflammation in the large intestine or inflammation of the gallbladder.
Importantly, pain in the right side in women can indicate gynecological problems. It is not uncommon for it to be the result of menstruation or ovulation, but when the pain does not go away, it should be paid attention to, as it can indicate: a cyst, ovarian rupture, inflammation of the appendages, endometriosis, adhesions. If it is felt by a pregnant woman, it may be related to hormonal changes in the first trimester of pregnancy, as well as the enlargement of the uterus and pressure on other organs. However, when it does not stop and gains in intensity and is accompanied by vaginal bleeding, it is necessary to visit a gynecologist immediately, as it may be a sign of miscarriage.
Diseases of the organs on the right side – types and symptoms.
Among the most common diseases that give symptoms on the right side of the abdomen is appendicitis. Everyone is afraid of it and most people know the basic symptoms. But what about the other, equally dangerous diseases? Below is a list of diseases that can be associated with a symptom such as right-sided pain.
- Appendicitis – the pain becomes increasingly severe, often starts from the umbilical region and gradually covers the epigastrium on the right side. It may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever and lack of appetite.
- Kidney stones – sudden and severe pain caused by blockage of urine in the bladder. Additional symptoms are, of course, nausea and vomiting, but also a feeling of pushing on the bladder.
- Hernia – often manifests itself through a sensation of pain and burning at the site.
- Acute cholangitis – high fever, jaundice and biliary colic attacks occur.
- Intestinal obstruction – often occurs as a complication of some disease (such as peritonitis). It also occurs when a cancerous tumor obstructs the intestinal lumen. Characteristic symptoms include nausea and vomiting, constipation and sharp pain in the right side of the abdomen. It can radiate to the lower abdomen.
- Gallbladder inflammation – is manifested by prolonged pain in the area under the ribs, fever with chills and accelerated breathing.
- Liver abscess – does not have very clear symptoms, but in addition to fever and abdominal pain, there may be yellowing of the skin color.
As a rule, pains are associated with diseases, and these should take you to a doctor as soon as possible. He, after a thorough history and examination, will probably refer you for additional tests. Thanks to them, the specialist will receive important information about your condition, and will be able to make the right diagnosis and introduce the appropriate treatment. However, don’t worry in advance. Many people associate abdominal or lower abdominal pain with only one diagnosis. So they don’t go for tests because they are afraid to hear the word “cancer” in their context. Often, however, it turns out that the problem is minor and the right vitamins or simple treatment is able to restore comfort in daily life. Remember, too, that even if the diagnosis is more serious, the sooner the cancer is detected – the better the prognosis and chances of recovery. Just as an untreated cold can even cause pneumonia (and it is already directly life-threatening). Therefore, it is not worth avoiding medical visits.
