Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Telli Venkata Pradeep Kumar

Causes of Right Side Stomach Pain

Pain in right side of stomach can happen for many reasons. It can feel dull, sharp, or cramp-like and may affect your daily routine. Whether it’s a mild ache or a sudden sharp pain on the right side of the stomach, it’s important to understand what might be causing it.

Let’s explore the common reasons behind pain in the right side of the abdomen, from minor digestive issues to conditions that may need medical attention.

1. Gas and Indigestion

One of the most common and harmless reasons for stomach right side pain is gas buildup or indigestion. When gas gets trapped in the intestines, especially in the colon on the right, it can cause bloating, cramping, and discomfort. This type of intestinal pain on the right usually comes and goes and can shift positions.

2. Appendicitis

A serious cause of lower right side abdominal pain is appendicitis. It usually starts as a dull pain near the belly button and moves to the lower right side. Over time, the pain becomes sharp and intense. If untreated, the appendix can burst, leading to complications. If you have right side lower stomach pain, female with nausea or fever, seek immediate medical help.

3. Gallbladder Issues

Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, especially after eating fatty foods, could be due to gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder. Gallbladder pain often feels like a sharp or cramping pain that may spread to the back or right shoulder.

4. Kidney Stones or Infections

Kidney stones or a kidney infection can cause pain in the right side of the stomach and back. The pain is usually felt in the lower back or side, but it can also radiate to the front. It may come in waves, be very severe, and could be accompanied by fever, nausea, or changes in urine color.

5. Liver Problems

The liver is located in the upper right part of the abdomen. Infections, liver inflammation (hepatitis), or other liver conditions may cause discomfort or pain in upper right side of stomach. Sometimes, it is accompanied by tiredness, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), or dark urine.

6. Intestinal Conditions

Problems with the intestines can also lead to right side abdominal pain. Conditions like constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or inflammation of the intestines can cause discomfort. People with IBS often report colon pain right, especially along the lower abdomen, near the hip bone.

7. Right Side Abdominal Muscle Strain

Overuse or sudden movement can strain the abdominal muscles on the right side. This kind of pain usually worsens with movement, coughing, or stretching. It is more common in people who lift heavy objects or engage in physical activity and may be felt as pain right side abdomen.

8. Hernia

A hernia occurs when tissue or part of an organ pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. If the hernia occurs on the right side, it can cause noticeable swelling and sharp pain on right side of stomach, especially when lifting or bending.

9. Ovarian and Reproductive Issues (in Females)

For women, right side lower stomach pain can also relate to reproductive organs. Conditions such as ovarian cysts, ovulation pain (mittelschmerz), or pelvic infections can cause pain in the lower right abdomen. Pain might be sharp or dull and may be linked to the menstrual cycle.

10. Pregnancy-Related Pain

During pregnancy, it’s common to experience stretching and pulling sensations. Right side stomach pain in pregnancy can happen due to round ligament pain, especially in the second trimester. However, any right side stomach pain that is severe, constant, or accompanied by other symptoms like bleeding or dizziness should be checked by a doctor.

11. Colon-Related Issues

The large intestine (colon) runs through the right side of the abdomen. Infections, inflammation (like colitis), or even trapped stool can cause colon pain right. This is often felt as a cramping pain in lower right side of stomach, along with changes in bowel habits.

12. Right Side Abdominal Pain from Shingles

Sometimes, a viral infection like shingles can cause burning or stabbing pain on one side of the abdomen. Before the rash appears, it may be mistaken for stomach right side pain. The pain is often very sensitive to touch.

When to See a Doctor

While many causes of right side stomach pain are not serious, you should seek medical help if you experience:

Conclusion

Pain in right side of stomach can have many causes, from simple gas to serious conditions like appendicitis or gallstones. Understanding the type of pain, its location (like pain in upper right side of stomach or pain in lower right side of stomach), and accompanying symptoms can help identify the reason. If you’re unsure about the cause or if the pain gets worse, consult a doctor.

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