Pain in Lower Right Abdomen: 16 Possible Causes

Pain in the lower right abdomen can stem from various causes, ranging from minor issues to serious medical conditions. Here are 16 possible causes, categorized by system:

1. Digestive System Issues

• Appendicitis: A common cause of lower right abdominal pain, especially if it’s sudden and worsening. Appendicitis requires immediate medical attention.
• Gas and Bloating: Excess gas can cause sharp, cramping pain, often relieved by passing gas.
• Constipation: Backed-up stool can cause pressure and pain in the abdomen, particularly on the lower right side.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Often leads to cramping and pain, which may be felt on either side of the abdomen.
• Crohn’s Disease: An inflammatory bowel disease that can cause lower right abdominal pain, especially if the small intestine is affected.

2. Urinary Tract Issues

• Kidney Stones: Stones moving through the urinary tract can cause sharp, radiating pain, often felt in the lower abdomen or back.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A bladder infection can cause lower abdominal pain, especially when urinating.
• Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis): A serious infection that causes pain in the lower abdomen, back, and side, often accompanied by fever and chills.

3. Reproductive System (Gynecological) Causes

• Ovarian Cyst: Cysts on the right ovary can cause localized pain, especially if they’re large or rupture.
• Endometriosis: This condition causes uterine-like tissue to grow outside the uterus, leading to chronic pain, particularly around menstruation.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: When a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, such as in the fallopian tube, it can cause sharp, severe pain, which is a medical emergency.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the reproductive organs that can cause lower abdominal pain and tenderness on one or both sides.

4. Musculoskeletal Causes

• Muscle Strain: Overstretching or injury to the abdominal muscles can lead to pain, especially on one side, often after heavy lifting or sudden movement.
• Hernia: Occurs when part of an organ pushes through the abdominal muscle wall. A hernia on the right side can cause localized pain, swelling, or a bulge.

5. Other Causes

• Right-Sided Colitis: Inflammation of the colon can cause lower abdominal pain and discomfort, often associated with bowel movement changes.
• Shingles: If pain is accompanied by a rash or burning sensation, it may be shingles, which affects nerve pathways and can be extremely painful.
• Diverticulitis: Though more common on the left side, right-sided diverticulitis can occur, causing inflammation in small pouches of the colon and resulting in pain.

6. Appendiceal and Vascular Conditions

• Appendix Abscess: A complication of appendicitis where a pus-filled infection forms around the appendix. This condition requires urgent treatment.
• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): Rare, but a weakening and potential rupture of the aorta can lead to severe lower abdominal and back pain.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If the pain is sudden, severe, or accompanied by symptoms like fever, vomiting, blood in the stool, or difficulty urinating, consult a healthcare provider immediately.