Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

Right lower abdominal cramping pain?

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing cramping pain in my lower right abdomen recently.
Sometimes it feels sharp, but the pain doesn't last long.
I also have a feeling of fullness in the bladder area (possibly the uterus) and I wake up at night to urinate, although I don't have this issue during the day.
What could be the possible causes of this condition? Which specialty should I consult? I apologize for asking here, thank you.

w, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/03

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Discomfort in the lower right abdomen could be related to both gastrointestinal and gynecological issues.
If gynecological problems are ruled out, a visit to a gastroenterologist is recommended.

Reply Date: 2017/02/03

More Info

Right lower abdominal pain can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its potential causes is crucial for determining the appropriate course of action. Given your description of intermittent sharp pain and a feeling of fullness in the bladder area, there are several possible explanations for your symptoms.

Possible Causes of Right Lower Abdominal Pain
1. Appendicitis: One of the most common causes of right lower abdominal pain, especially if the pain is sharp and localized. Appendicitis often presents with nausea, vomiting, and fever. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Ovarian Issues: In females, conditions such as ovarian cysts, ovarian torsion, or ectopic pregnancy can cause pain in the right lower abdomen. These conditions may also present with changes in menstrual cycles or abnormal bleeding.

3. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI can cause pain in the lower abdomen, particularly if it involves the bladder. Symptoms may include a frequent urge to urinate, burning sensation during urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.

4. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as constipation, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease can lead to localized pain. If you have changes in bowel habits or associated gastrointestinal symptoms, these could be relevant.

5. Musculoskeletal Pain: Sometimes, pain in the abdominal area can stem from muscle strain or injury, especially if you have engaged in activities that involve heavy lifting or twisting motions.

6. Hernia: An inguinal or femoral hernia can cause pain in the lower abdomen, particularly if there is a bulge or discomfort when standing or lifting.

When to Seek Help
You should seek medical attention if:
- The pain is severe and persistent.

- You experience additional symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or significant changes in bowel or urinary habits.

- There is any sign of internal bleeding, such as blood in your stool or urine.

- You have a history of gynecological issues that could be related to your symptoms.

Recommended Specialist
Given the nature of your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a gynecologist first, especially if you are female. They can evaluate for any potential ovarian or uterine issues. If gynecological causes are ruled out, a referral to a gastroenterologist or urologist may be warranted based on the findings.

Conclusion
In summary, right lower abdominal pain can arise from various causes, ranging from benign to serious conditions. It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely and seek medical evaluation, particularly if the pain persists or worsens. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and alleviate discomfort. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Treatments

Right lower abdominal pain.

Dr. Xu Ruihong reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There are many causes of right lower abdominal pain. The characteristics of the pain, accompanying symptoms, and duration are all important information for diagnosis. Several common differential diagnoses include: 1. Acute or chronic appendicitis 2. Functional gastrointestinal di...

Understanding Right Abdominal Pain: Causes and When to Seek Help

The pain in the right abdomen (upper and lower) accompanied by discomfort and bloating in the gastrointestinal area, as well as mild nausea when lightly tapping the area below the right chest, may indicate an issue with the right kidney, liver, gallbladder, or the intestines. It ...

Dr. Xu Li'an reply Family Medicine
Dear Ching, without seeing you in person, asking detailed questions, and conducting a physical examination, I cannot provide you with an answer. Do you think a doctor can diagnose from a distance? That would make them more skilled than fortune tellers! Please visit a gastroentero...

Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Possible Causes and Tests

Hello, doctor. For the past two days, I have experienced pain when pressing on a specific point in my lower right abdomen, without any other gastrointestinal discomfort. What could this condition be? What kind of examination should I undergo?

Dr. Chen Jingwen reply Internal Medicine
Right lower abdominal pain, without gastrointestinal discomfort, may have several possible causes: 1. Acute appendicitis 2. Acute diverticulitis 3. Certain renal and urinary system diseases, such as hydronephrosis, pyelonephritis, and ureteral stones 4. Colorectal tumors 5. Local...

Understanding Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Next Steps

Hello Doctor: For the past two days, I have been experiencing pain in my lower right abdomen (the pain worsens with turning, stretching, movement, or when pressure is applied). I visited a gastroenterology clinic where the doctor performed an ultrasound and indicated that the pai...

Dr. Huang Zhihui reply Surgery
When a young person experiences right lower abdominal pain for the first time, acute appendicitis is indeed the primary consideration. For most general surgeons, the diagnosis is usually not too difficult and relies mainly on symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and b...