Sudden Pain In the Right Side of the Stomach? Complete Guide to Causes & Care

Experiencing pain on the right side of the stomach can be unsettling, but it often has a simple explanation. Yes, pain in the abdominal area can be caused by gas, reproductive health issues, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome(IBS). There can be more reasons behind it, but there is no need to worry. It should disappear within a few days, unless severe symptoms persist, such as a kidney infection.

If you are experiencing persistent pain, then you should see a doctor to confirm a diagnosis for your pain and to initiate appropriate interventions.

In this blog, you will learn about the leading causes of right-sided stomach pain, its treatment, symptoms, and when to seek medical attention.

5 Main Causes of Right Side Stomach Pain?

The common causes of right stomach pain include:

• Excess gas

A buildup of gas in the intestines can affect the right side of your stomach. This issue can affect individuals of all ages and is often triggered by specific foods. Yes, when food is not fully digested, it can lead to gas accumulation in the abdominal area, resulting in symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and a feeling of tightness in the stomach.

How to treat? Incorporating healthy dietary changes into your daily routine can help reduce gas and improve digestion.

• Appendicitis

Appendicitis is indeed the inflammation of the appendix. It can worsen after a couple of hours and is generally felt while breathing or moving. In this condition, you should consult a doctor immediately. Otherwise, it is possible to result in a burst in the appendix.

How to use: It is typically treated through surgical removal of the appendix, also known as appendectomy.

• Kidney infection

This infection is often caused by bacteria that enter your body through the urinary tract. These bacteria can affect one or both of your kidneys. It often causes pain and discomfort in your lower abdominal area and the side of your back.

How to treat: Pain can be managed through medication, but properly treated by Medical procedures or surgery.

• Inguinal hernia

Inguinal hernias mostly appear in men and older people due to weakened abdominal muscles.

A hernia occurs when a part of your body pushes through the tissue or muscle that usually holds it in place. Most hernias happen in the abdominal area, causing discomfort and worsening pain.

How to treat: Making small lifestyle changes nd considering surgical involvement can help prevent complications.

• Inflammatory bowel disease

It is a severe digestive disorder. It includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which can lead to pain on the right side of the stomach. In particular, Crohn's disease affects the lower part of the small intestine(ileum), which is located on the right side. 

How to treat: Using anti-inflammatory medications can help alleviate IBD symptoms, but consult a doctor for a prescription before use. 

Also read: 10 Home Remedies for Stomach Pain.

The leading cause of stomach pain in females

For females, right-sided abdominal pain could mean more than a stomach issue. So ladies, is that pain on your right side trying to tell you something deeper? Here are some causes of stomach pain, particularly for females:

• Menstrual pain: You may experience ovulation pain in the abdominal area during menstruation. It can occur at the time of your period or shortly after. Whether this type of pain is usually expected, and although it can become intense at times, it's not too serious.
• Endometriosis: It is a long-term, serious condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus(endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can also grow on organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the intestines. 
• Ovarian cysts: Cysts are a kind of sac filled with fluid found on or within the ovary. Most cysts don't cause pain and typically disappear over time. However, a large ovarian cyst can lead to severe symptoms, including sharp abdominal pain, especially if it ruptures. Yes, a ruptured ovarian cyst can create a life-threatening condition.
• Ectopic pregnancy: It generally happens when a fertilised egg implants outside of the uterus. It can cause brutal stomach pain and can rupture your fallopian tube. It could be a life-threatening condition. You can also book your HCG Maternal Marker (Pregnancy) Test at home to monitor your pregnancy health. 
• Bacterial infections, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, primarily cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). It often triggers when sexually transmitted bacteria spread from the vagina to the upper reproductive tract. Additionally, unprotected sex, multiple partners, douching, or having a history of STIs can be other risk factors.

Also read: Irregular Periods: symptoms, blood tests your doctor prescribes, and more.

Treatment and when to seek medical attention

For less severe pain, consider using home remedies. Here's a list that you can use at home:

• Warm bath
• Heating pad 
• Chamomile tea
• Apple cider vinegar 
• BRAT diet ( banana, rice, apple, toast)

You can get relief from right-sided stomach pain through these remedies. However, if you have a serious medical condition or your pain is mild to moderate, then schedule an appointment with a general practitioner. After the checkup, if necessary, they will refer you to a gastroenterologist (a specialist in the digestive system) for further testing.

Final Words

Right side stomach pain can range from something as simple as gas to more serious conditions like appendicitis or ovarian cysts. While mild pain is often harmless and may go away on its own within a few days, experiencing persistent, severe, or unusual symptoms should never be ignored. 

Additionally, if your discomfort doesn't improve or is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or other warning signs, schedule a doctor's appointment right away for proper evaluation and care. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and ensure faster recovery. Staying mindful of your symptoms and knowing when to seek medical help is essential for maintaining good abdominal health.

FAQ

• When should I be concerned about right-sided stomach pain?

If the pain persists or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, vomiting, dizziness, or changes in bowel movements, consult a doctor immediately. These could be signs of severe conditions like appendicitis or a ruptured ovarian cyst.

• Can gas cause pain on the right side of the stomach?

Yes, trapped gas in the intestines can lead to sharp or cramping pain on the right side. This often results from poor digestion or the consumption of gas-producing foods.

• Can an inguinal hernia cause right-sided stomach pain?

Yes, an inguinal hernia is more common in men and can cause a bulge and pain in the lower right abdomen. It usually requires lifestyle changes or surgical repair.

• When should I see a doctor for right-sided abdominal pain?

If your pain lasts more than a day, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, or changes in urination or digestion, consult a healthcare provider.