Pain in Lower Right Side of Stomach: 8 Common Causes, Symptoms & When to Worry

Pain in the lower right side of the stomach: It happens. It could be something minor, like gas or constipation. But, it may also indicate more serious conditions like appendicitis, kidney stones, or even gynecological problems. 

Sometimes it's just related to harmless digestive issues, but it could also point to appendicitis, kidney stones, or a problem related to women's health. 

Knowing what might be causing that pain, what other symptoms to watch out for, and when you should see a doctor is vital for early detection and treatment. 

Also read: Left or Right Side Stomach Pain

Common Causes of Pain In the Lower Right of the Stomach

Below are common reasons you might experience pain in the lower right side of your abdomen. Have a look! 

1. Appendicitis

Appendicitis is one of the common reasons for pain in your lower right belly. It happens when your appendix gets inflamed and infected. It is a medical emergency, and if left untreated, it can burst and cause a severe infection. 

Symptoms of appendicitis: 

• Pain that starts around your belly button and then moves to your lower right side 
• Feeling sick to your stomach or throwing up 
• A fever 
• Loss of appetite
• Pain that gets worse when you move

2. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can cause terrible, sharp pain. It usually starts in your lower back and can spread to your lower belly and groin area. Pain in the lower right side of the stomach can occur if the stone is located in the right urinary tract. Healthcare professionals usually suggest an ultrasound, CT scan, or urine test to confirm the diagnosis. 

Symptoms of kidney stones:

• Strong, cramping pain
• Blood in urine
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Frequent or painful urination

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a long-term digestive problem that is usually triggered by stress and certain foods. These may include caffeine, dairy, and processed food. You'll usually feel pain in the lower right side of your stomach. 

You can manage IBS with dietary changes, practicing stress-reducing techniques, and medications. 

Common symptoms of IBS:

• Cramps
• Bloating
• Altering diarrhea and constipation. 
• Fatigue
• Problems with urination

4. Ovarian Cysts or Torsion (in females)

Women may experience pain in the lower right side of the stomach due to cysts in the ovary (mittelschmerz) or ovarian torsion, which is the twisting of the ovary. The condition is a medical emergency and needs immediate care. 

Symptoms of ovarian cysts/torsion:

• Sharp pelvic pain
• Irregular menstruation
• Bloating
• Pain during sex or urination
• Breast tenderness in some cases

5. Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy happens when a fertilized egg implants itself outside the womb, usually in a fallopian tube. When the embryo grows, it can cause terrible pain in the lower right side of the stomach. 

Symptoms of ectopic pregnancy

• Severe abdominal pain on one side
• Vaginal bleeding
• Dizziness
• Shoulder pain
• Positive pregnancy test with unusual symptoms

6. Hernia 

A hernia happens when something inside your body, like an organ or tissue, pushes through a weak spot in your stomach muscles. The most common kind is an inguinal hernia. These usually cause pain or make you uncomfortable in your lower right stomach, especially when you cough, bend over, or lift heavy objects. 

If you think you have a hernia, see a doctor. If a hernia gets strangulated, meaning its blood supply is cut off, that's an emergency, and you'll need surgery right away.

Symptoms of a hernia:

• A lump you can see or feel in your lower right belly area. 
• You may experience pain when you lift things, cough, or bend over.
• A feeling of heaviness or dragging in the groin 
• Nausea or vomiting 

7. Constipation or Gas

Constipation or trapped gas can cause pain in the lower right side of the stomach. When poop piles up or gas gets trapped, it can stretch your intestines, causing cramping or sharp pains, especially in the lower part of the belly. Increasing fiber and water intake may help.

Symptoms of constipation or gas:

• Abdominal bloating or fullness
• Cramping pain
• Infrequent bowel movements
• Passing gas eases abdominal pain
• Pressure on the stomach

Also read: Comprehensive Guide to Gastric Problems

8. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID, or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, is when a woman's reproductive organs get infected. Usually, it's from bacteria passed during sex, like chlamydia or gonorrhea. This infection can make your uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries swell up, which can cause pain in your lower belly, usually on the right side.

Doctors usually recommend antibiotics and early treatment to prevent complications. 

Symptoms of PID:

• Pain during sex or urination
• Vaginal discharge
• Irregularity in periods
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue

Pain in Lower Right Side of Stomach: When to See A Doctor Immediately

You should seek medical attention if you experience: 

• Bad or increasing pain 
• Pain and a high fever 
• Unstoppable vomiting 
• Pain with blood when you pee or poop 
• Feeling dizzy, passing out, or having trouble breathing
• Missed periods

Diagnostic Tests for Pain In the Right Side of the Stomach

If you have pain in the lower right side of your stomach that just won't go away or is bad, your doctor may recommend some tests to rule out the exact cause. These may include: 

• Ultrasound: The test helps detect ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, or abnormalities in organs like the appendix.
• CT Scan or MRI: These tests help diagnose appendicitis, kidney stones, hernias, or other structural issues.
• Blood Tests: They are used to check for signs of infection, inflammation, or internal bleeding.
• Urine Test: It helps detect kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or hematuria (blood in urine).
• Pelvic Examination (in females): The test helps evaluate conditions like PID, ovarian torsion, or ectopic pregnancy.

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How to Prevent Lower Right Abdominal Pain? 

To help prevent lower right abdominal pain, you should:

• Stay hydrated
• Eat a high-fiber diet
• Exercise regularly to aid digestion
• Do not hold your urine or stool
• Manage stress 
• Regular pelvic checkups are a must
• Practice safe sex

Conclusion

Do not ignore pain in the lower right side of the stomach, especially if it is intense, persistent, or comes with other symptoms. Sometimes it's nothing serious and you can deal with it yourself, but other times you need to see a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis is key to preventing complications. 

FAQs

1. Does lower side of the stomach pain always mean appendicitis?

No. Appendicitis is one of the common causes of abdominal pain, but other conditions like kidney stones, gas, hernia, or gynecological problems can also cause similar pain. 

2. Can gas also cause pain?

Yes. Gas build-up can also cause abdominal pain. Burping or passing gas can provide instant relief and thus reduce lower right abdominal pain. 

3. How do I know if the pain is severe?

If you experience sudden, severe, or persistent pain, or if it comes with other symptoms like fainting or fever, consult a doctor immediately. 

4. Can pain in the lower right side of the stomach be caused by urinary tract infections (UTI)?

Yes, it's possible. The pain from a UTI can move to one side, especially if the infection goes to your kidneys.

5. Should I take medicines to get rid of pain?

Do not self-medicate, especially before getting a diagnosis. Painkillers can mask symptoms and delay treatment for severe conditions. 

6. What are the causes of the right lower abdomen?

Appendicitis, kidney stones, hernia, or digestive issues such as gas and constipation, and ovarian cysts ( in women) are some common causes of pain in the right lower abdomen.