Hard Lump in Lower Right Abdomen: What Could It Be? - Oncology

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A hard lump can be felt on the right side of the abdomen (approximately below the navel)?


Dr.
Chen, I would like to ask you a question.
Recently, I have noticed a hard lump in the lower right side of my abdomen that has persisted for about 2 to 3 weeks.
It hurts when I intentionally pull on my abdomen and disturb the lump, but it doesn't hurt when I leave it alone.
I previously visited a clinic, and the doctor there suggested it might be inflammation of the subcutaneous tissue and prescribed anti-inflammatory pain medication, which has not been effective.
What could this situation be? If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult? I'm a bit worried it might be a tumor...

Ai Xi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/20

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology


Aichi / 26 years old / Male
1.
Recently, I have had a hard lump in the lower right side of my abdomen that has persisted for 2 to 3 weeks.
It hurts when I intentionally pull on my abdomen and disturb the lump, but it doesn't hurt when I leave it alone.
I previously visited a clinic, and the doctor there suggested it might be subcutaneous tissue inflammation and prescribed anti-inflammatory pain medication, which was ineffective.
What could this situation be?
A: I agree with the opinion of the physician you consulted.
It could be an issue with the subcutaneous tissue or inflammation due to a strain in the abdominal muscles, which sometimes takes a long time to fully heal.
Western medicine can only provide anti-inflammatory and pain relief medications.
2.
If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult? I'm a bit worried it might be a tumor...
A: You should consider seeing a general surgeon or a gastroenterologist.
Thank you for your inquiry.
Taoyuan Hospital, Dr.
Chen Si-Rong.

Reply Date: 2016/03/20

More Info


When it comes to a hard lump in the lower right abdomen, there are several potential causes that could explain your symptoms. Given that the lump has persisted for 2-3 weeks and causes pain when manipulated, it is essential to approach this situation with caution and seek appropriate medical evaluation.

One common cause of a hard lump in the abdomen could be a hernia. Hernias occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. In the case of an inguinal hernia, which is common in the lower abdomen, you might feel a lump that can be painful, especially when you cough, lift something heavy, or strain.
Another possibility is an abdominal abscess, which is a collection of pus that can form due to infection. If the lump is indeed an abscess, it may be tender to the touch and could be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or chills.
Lipomas, which are benign tumors made of fat tissue, can also present as hard lumps under the skin. While they are generally painless, they can sometimes cause discomfort if they press on surrounding tissues.
In some cases, the lump could be related to lymph nodes in the area. Enlarged lymph nodes can occur due to infections or other conditions and may feel firm or hard.
Given your concern about the possibility of a tumor, it is crucial to take this seriously. While many lumps are benign, any persistent or painful lump should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
For your situation, I recommend seeing a general practitioner or a gastroenterologist. They can perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to better understand the nature of the lump. If necessary, they might refer you to a surgeon or a specialist based on their findings.

In the meantime, keep track of any additional symptoms you may experience, such as changes in bowel habits, weight loss, or fever, as these can provide important clues to your healthcare provider.
It’s understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of a serious condition, but remember that many lumps are benign and treatable. Early evaluation and diagnosis are key to addressing any underlying issues effectively. Please do not hesitate to seek medical attention, as it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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