Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Concerns - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

More Info

---

Understanding right lower abdominal pain can be quite complex, as it can stem from various causes, especially when accompanied by symptoms like rectal bleeding and changes in bowel habits. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a series of gastrointestinal issues, including hard stools leading to rectal bleeding and subsequent abdominal pain.

Firstly, the presence of bright red blood on toilet paper or in the stool often indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract, which can be caused by conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or diverticular disease. Since you mentioned that you were prescribed medication for hemorrhoids and that your bowel movements returned to normal, it’s possible that the initial bleeding was indeed related to hemorrhoids, especially if the blood was bright red and appeared after straining during bowel movements.

However, the recurrence of hard stools and the new onset of right lower abdominal pain raises some concerns. The pain you describe, which worsens with movement and is accompanied by a sensation of discomfort radiating to the inner thigh, could suggest several possibilities:
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This functional gastrointestinal disorder can cause abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. Stress and certain foods can exacerbate symptoms.

2. Appendicitis: Although your pain is not severe, appendicitis typically presents with acute pain in the right lower abdomen, often accompanied by nausea and fever. It’s essential to rule this out, especially if the pain worsens.

3. Diverticulitis: This condition occurs when diverticula (small pouches that can form in the colon) become inflamed or infected. It can cause localized pain, often in the lower left abdomen, but can sometimes present on the right side, especially in individuals with a history of bowel irregularities.

4. Musculoskeletal Issues: Given that your pain increases with movement, it could also be related to muscle strain or injury, particularly if you have been lifting heavy objects or engaging in activities that put strain on your abdominal muscles.

5. Gynecological Issues: In women, right lower abdominal pain can also be related to ovarian cysts or other gynecological conditions, especially if the pain is cyclical or associated with menstrual changes.

Since you are awaiting a colonoscopy, this is a prudent step to further investigate the cause of your symptoms. The colonoscopy will allow for direct visualization of the colon and rectum, helping to identify any abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, or other pathological changes.
In the meantime, it’s essential to manage your diet to prevent hard stools. Increasing fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with adequate hydration, can help maintain softer stools and reduce straining during bowel movements. Additionally, consider avoiding foods that may exacerbate your symptoms, such as fried or greasy foods, which you mentioned consuming prior to your recent issues.

Lastly, anxiety and stress can significantly impact gastrointestinal health, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. If you find that anxiety is a contributing factor to your symptoms, it may be beneficial to explore stress management techniques or consult a mental health professional.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for your right lower abdominal pain and rectal bleeding, the upcoming colonoscopy will provide valuable insights. Until then, focus on dietary adjustments and monitoring your symptoms closely. If the pain worsens or if you experience additional concerning symptoms such as fever, persistent vomiting, or significant changes in bowel habits, seek medical attention promptly.