What Could Be Causing Right Upper Quadrant Abdominal Pain?

Right upper quadrant (RUQ) abdominal pain can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, ranging from mild digestive issues to more serious organ-related diseases. Identifying the exact cause often requires professional medical evaluation, but here are some common possibilities:

Gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis or peptic ulcers may lead to discomfort in the RUQ. These conditions affect the stomach lining and can mimic other types of abdominal pain.

Liver and biliary system diseases are among the most frequent causes of RUQ pain. Conditions like cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), cholangitis (bile duct inflammation), gallstones, liver stones, hepatic tumors, and even bile duct cancer can all result in pain localized to this area.

Pancreatic issues should also be considered. Pancreatitis, pancreatic stones, or tumors can contribute to discomfort in the right upper abdomen, although pancreatic symptoms often present more commonly in the central or left side of the upper abdomen.

Certain intestinal conditions may also manifest as RUQ pain. This includes duodenal ulcers, inflammation, or tumors affecting the duodenum. Additionally, conditions involving the ascending colon near the liver, such as ulcerative colitis or right-sided colon cancer, can cause pain in this region.

Due to the range of possible causes, prompt consultation with a specialist is highly recommended. Visiting a gastroenterologist, hepatobiliary surgeon, colorectal surgeon, or general surgeon can help determine the underlying issue through diagnostic tests and physical examination.