Lower right abdominal pain can be concerning, as it may point towards a wide range of conditions, from mild to serious. If you experience persistent or intense pain in this area, it’s essential to understand the possible causes and know when to seek urgent medical help. At Express ER, we provide immediate care for individuals experiencing abdominal discomfort and are equipped to handle various causes of lower right abdominal pain.

Common Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain

There are several probable causes of abdominal pain on the lower right side, ranging from digestive issues to more serious conditions. Some common causes include:

• Appendicitis: A common and serious condition that often leads to surgery.
• Ovarian conditions: Issues like cysts or ectopic pregnancy can cause pain in women.
• Gastrointestinal problems: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, and Crohn’s disease.
• Infections or tumors: In some cases, infection or growth in the intestines can result in localized pain.

The pain’s location and other accompanying symptoms can help healthcare providers determine the likely cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is one of the most common causes of lower right abdominal pain, especially in younger individuals. It typically begins with vague abdominal discomfort, followed by sharp pain that is concentrated in the lower right abdomen. Other symptoms include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Pain that worsens with movement or touch

If left untreated, appendicitis can lead to serious complications such as perforation of the appendix, which can result in peritonitis, a life-threatening infection of the abdominal cavity.

Appendicitis requires urgent treatment because if the appendix bursts, it can lead to widespread infection. This makes it crucial to seek immediate care if you experience these symptoms. Freestanding emergency rooms, like Express ER, offer quick assessment and treatment for suspected appendicitis.

Ovarian Cysts and Ectopic Pregnancy

In women, ovarian cysts can cause localized lower abdominal pain on the right side of the cyst, which is positioned on the right ovary. While many ovarian cysts are harmless and go unnoticed, larger cysts can rupture, leading to severe pain, bleeding, and other complications.

An ectopic pregnancy, which takes place when a fertilized egg situates or impants n the exterior part of the uterus (usually in the fallopian tube), can also cause severe right-sided abdominal pain. It is taken as a medical emergency and requires instant attention, as it can pave the way to internal bleeding and other complications.

If you’re a woman experiencing severe lower abdominal pain, especially if you’re pregnant or could be, it’s critical to seek urgent care.

IBS, GERD & Digestive Issues

Concerns like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease, aka IBD, or diverticulitis can cause recurrent or chronic abdominal pain, including in the lower right abdomen. These conditions often cause:

• Cramping
• Bloating
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Unexplained weight loss

Although these conditions are usually not emergencies, they can lead to long-term discomfort and complications if left untreated.

Managing digestive issues often involves dietary changes, stress management, and sometimes medication. However, it’s very important to consult a healthcare professional if your symptoms worsen or don’t improve with fundamental lifestyle changes.

Heartburn vs. GERD

While heartburn is a common symptom many people experience after meals, if the pain persists or becomes frequent, it may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more serious condition. Unlike occasional heartburn, GERD causes chronic acid reflux and can lead to:

• Persistent discomfort in the lower abdomen
• Regurgitation of food or liquid
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss

If you experience these symptoms frequently, immediate care may be necessary to prevent complications such as esophageal damage or ulcers.

If your symptoms include frequent heartburn, chest pain, and regurgitation, or if lifestyle changes do not provide relief, it’s essential to seek medical care.

Treatment for Abdominal Pain

Home care such as rest, hydration, and medications (like anti-inflammatory drugs or antacids) may be effective for many cases of lower abdominal pain. Lifestyle changes such as changing your diet can also help alleviate symptoms, especially for conditions like IBS or GERD.

However, if the pain persists or worsens, it’s important to visit a medical provider who may perform diagnostic tests, such as imaging or blood tests, to determine the cause.

In some cases, especially if you have appendicitis or an ovarian issue like an ectopic pregnancy or cyst rupture, surgery is required. Appendicitis is often treated through an appendectomy, a procedure that removes the appendix. Other conditions, like ovarian cysts or tumors, may also require surgical intervention, depending on the size, location, and severity of the issue.

Conclusion

Lower right abdominal pain is a symptom that should not be ignored, as it could indicate a range of conditions, from relatively benign issues to life-threatening emergencies. If you’re experiencing severe or persistent pain, especially accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or fever, it’s crucial to seek immediate care. At Express Emergency Room in Abilene, our medical professionals are equipped to diagnose and treat a variety of causes of abdominal pain. Early diagnosis and treatment can stop complications and provide relief, ensuring you get the care you need without delay.