Why Is My Right Abdomen Larger Than the Left? Digestive Concerns

Why is the right side of the abdomen slightly larger than the left side?

Hello, doctor: I am a bit concerned about my intestinal issues.
I would like to ask, if my stool varies in thickness from time to time, sometimes well-formed and sometimes not, or if it often becomes loose and watery, is that normal? The color generally depends on what I eat.
I usually have a bowel movement once a day, but on weekends it can change to once every two days.
What worries me the most is that I experience a dull pain in the area about 10 centimeters to the right of my navel.
The pain is not very intense, and I don't notice any hard lumps when I press on it, nor is it particularly painful.
Sometimes it hurts, and sometimes it doesn't.
However, I can visually see that the right side of my abdomen is slightly larger than the left side (with the navel as the center).
Does this indicate a problem with my intestines?

mie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/21

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, based on the symptoms, it appears to be gastroenteritis or functional bowel disorder.
It is recommended to follow a low-fat and non-irritating diet.
If there is no improvement, please visit the Gastroenterology outpatient clinic at Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, to see Dr.
Chi-Feng Chen.

Reply Date: 2015/10/21

More Info

When you notice that your right abdomen appears larger than your left, it can understandably cause concern, especially when accompanied by digestive irregularities and discomfort. However, it is essential to understand that asymmetry in the abdomen is not uncommon and can be attributed to various factors.

Firstly, the human body is not perfectly symmetrical. Organs such as the liver, spleen, and intestines are positioned asymmetrically within the abdominal cavity. For instance, the liver is predominantly located on the right side, which can contribute to a slight bulge in that area. Additionally, the distribution of gas in the intestines can vary, leading to temporary swelling or asymmetry. If imaging studies like abdominal ultrasound or X-rays have returned normal results, this is a reassuring sign that there are no significant structural abnormalities.

Regarding your bowel habits, variations in stool consistency and frequency can be influenced by numerous factors, including diet, hydration, and stress levels. It is normal for stool to vary from formed to loose, and the color can indeed change based on what you eat. However, if you consistently experience discomfort or pain in a specific area, such as around the navel, it warrants further investigation.

The dull pain you describe, particularly if it is localized and fluctuates in intensity, could be related to several benign conditions. For example, it might be due to muscle strain, gas buildup, or even a mild case of appendicitis, especially if the pain is on the right side. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

In terms of digestive health, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber, stay hydrated, and engage in regular physical activity. These practices can help regulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive function. If you notice that your bowel habits change significantly or if you experience additional symptoms such as weight loss, persistent pain, or changes in appetite, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

In summary, while asymmetry in the abdomen can be normal and may not indicate a serious issue, the combination of your symptoms—especially the localized pain—suggests that further evaluation may be necessary. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns. Consulting with a gastroenterologist or a healthcare provider who can perform a detailed examination and possibly recommend additional tests will provide you with peace of mind and clarity regarding your digestive health.

Similar Q&A

Uneven Abdomen: Understanding Right-Side Distension Concerns

Hello, doctor. I am 175 cm tall and weigh 84 kg. I run at least three times a week, covering about 3 kilometers each time, and I don't feel any discomfort. However, I recently noticed that my right side of the abdomen is slightly larger than the left, and it's more noti...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Please visit the Gastroenterology and Hepatology outpatient clinic for treatment. In fact, our bodies are not completely symmetrical, but we need to rule out any abnormalities within the abdominal cavity. Best regards, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Departmen...

Understanding Left Abdominal Distension Near the Belly Button

I feel like the area to the left of my belly button is larger than the right side, but there is no pain, and my bowel movements are normal. When I sit and feel with my hand, it seems like I can touch my intestines, and they feel larger than those on the right side. However, when ...

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello Mr./Ms. Pomelo: The human body is not necessarily perfectly symmetrical; variations in fat distribution or muscle orientation can lead to some asymmetry. If you do not experience pain or discomfort, there is no need to worry. However, if you notice weight loss, abdominal di...

Is Your Abdomen Asymmetrical? Understanding Gastrointestinal Concerns

When pressing on the abdomen, the left side appears significantly larger than the right side, resulting in asymmetry. Is this normal? Stool tests, barium enema, abdominal ultrasound, and gastroscopy all returned normal results.

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The organs within the abdominal cavity, except for the kidneys, are not symmetrical by nature, and the distribution of intestinal gas is also asymmetrical. Therefore, if the examination results are normal, there is no need to worry too much. Changhua Hospital cares about y...

Uneven Belly Size: Is It Normal and What Could It Mean?

Is it normal for the abdomen to be uneven, with the right side of the belly button being larger than the left? What could cause this condition? There is some pain when pressing down firmly. Should I get an endoscopy or something similar? (I noticed this during my previous pregnan...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The distribution of abdominal organs is inherently asymmetrical, which can lead to variations. If you have any concerns, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for evaluation. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.