Lower abdominal tenderness?
Hello, Director Hsu: In the past couple of days, I have been experiencing pain when pressing on the lower right side of my abdomen, which feels more swollen compared to the left side.
When I press down, it feels like I am touching something (I had a lipoma found during a previous health check).
The pain does not occur unless I press down, and I have no issues when using the restroom.
I would like to ask you what these symptoms might indicate.
Thank you for your response!
Nìngmíng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/01/16
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Anonymous: Hello, I apologize, but there is too little information regarding your issue, and there are many conditions that could cause the described pain.
It is difficult to make an accurate assessment.
It is best to seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid any delay in treatment.
Response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.
Reply Date: 2011/01/16
More Info
Understanding right lower abdominal pain can be quite complex, as it can stem from a variety of causes, each with its own set of symptoms. Based on your description of the pain being localized to the lower right abdomen, with a sensation of swelling and a palpable mass, there are several potential explanations to consider.
1. Appendicitis: One of the most common causes of right lower abdominal pain is appendicitis, which occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. Symptoms typically include sharp pain that starts around the navel and then moves to the lower right abdomen, along with nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. However, since you mentioned that the pain is only present when pressure is applied, this may not be the primary concern.
2. Ovarian Issues: In females, right lower abdominal pain can also be related to ovarian conditions, such as ovarian cysts or torsion. These conditions can cause localized pain and may present with additional symptoms like changes in menstrual cycles or unusual discharge.
3. Hernia: A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall. If you feel a lump or mass in the area, it could be a hernia, especially if it becomes more prominent when you cough or strain.
4. Fatty Tumors (Lipomas): Since you mentioned having a fatty tumor previously, it is possible that the mass you are feeling is a lipoma. These are generally benign and may not cause pain unless they press on surrounding tissues or nerves. If the lipoma is growing or causing discomfort, it may need to be evaluated further.
5. Muscle Strain or Injury: Sometimes, pain in the abdominal area can be attributed to muscle strain, especially if you have engaged in physical activity that may have overexerted the abdominal muscles. This type of pain is often exacerbated by movement or pressure.
6. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease can also cause localized pain in the lower abdomen. These conditions may present with additional symptoms like changes in bowel habits, fever, or abdominal tenderness.
Given that you do not experience pain when not pressing on the area and have no issues with bowel movements, it may suggest that the pain is not due to a serious gastrointestinal issue. However, the presence of a palpable mass warrants further investigation.
Recommendations:
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare professional who can perform a physical examination and possibly order imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to better understand the nature of the mass and the cause of your pain.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as the intensity of the pain, any new symptoms that develop, or changes in your overall health.
- Avoid Strain: Until you have a clearer understanding of the cause of your pain, it may be wise to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that could exacerbate the discomfort.
In summary, while there are several potential causes for your right lower abdominal pain, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications and ensure that any necessary interventions are timely and effective.
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