Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Is It Appendicitis or Something Else?

Right lower abdominal pain?

Hello, doctor.
On the night of September 10th, around 11 PM, I experienced cramping pain in my abdomen and went to the bathroom.
On September 11th, I felt a constant tightening in my lower right abdomen when I was hungry, which improved slightly after eating.
However, every three to four hours, I would feel uncomfortable, slightly nauseous, and have a lack of appetite, with diarrhea occurring 3-4 times (not watery, just a bit loose) shortly after eating.
As of September 12th, I still have pain in my lower right abdomen.
I would like to ask the doctor if this could be appendicitis or if there are other possibilities (no fever).

Jinzhang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/12

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Based on the initial assessment, it does not appear to be appendicitis.
A light diet is recommended, along with self-monitoring of temperature and pain.
If symptoms persist, seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.

Reply Date: 2020/09/12

More Info

Right lower abdominal pain can be concerning, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, changes in appetite, and altered bowel habits. Given your description, it is essential to consider several potential causes, including appendicitis, but also other gastrointestinal or gynecological issues.

Possible Causes of Right Lower Abdominal Pain
1. Appendicitis: This is one of the most common causes of right lower abdominal pain. It typically presents with sharp pain that starts around the belly button and then moves to the right lower quadrant. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and sometimes fever. However, the absence of fever does not rule out appendicitis, especially in early stages.

2. Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. This condition can be caused by viral or bacterial infections and may present with symptoms similar to what you described, including loose stools and abdominal cramping.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This functional gastrointestinal disorder can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation. Stress and dietary factors often exacerbate IBS symptoms.

4. Ovarian Issues: In females, right lower abdominal pain can sometimes be related to ovarian cysts or other gynecological conditions. Symptoms may include pain that correlates with the menstrual cycle or pain during intercourse.

5. Hernia: An inguinal or femoral hernia can cause localized pain, especially if there is a bulge or if the pain worsens with certain movements or activities.

6. Kidney Stones or Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Pain from kidney stones can radiate to the lower abdomen and may be accompanied by changes in urination. A UTI can also cause lower abdominal pain, often with a burning sensation during urination.

Recommendations
Given the symptoms you are experiencing, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Here are some steps you can take:
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential. They may perform a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies (like an ultrasound or CT scan) to determine the cause of your pain.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms, such as fever, changes in bowel habits, or worsening pain. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

- Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s tempting to self-diagnose based on symptoms, many conditions can present similarly. A healthcare provider can help differentiate between them.

- Stay Hydrated: If you are experiencing diarrhea, it is important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, and consider oral rehydration solutions if necessary.

- Dietary Considerations: If certain foods seem to exacerbate your symptoms, it may be helpful to keep a food diary and discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
While appendicitis is a possibility given your symptoms, other conditions could also be responsible for your right lower abdominal pain. It is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and management can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

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