Right Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Medical Help
Experiencing pain in the lower right abdomen can be concerning and may stem from a variety of underlying conditions. The causes differ significantly between men and women due to anatomical differences, and identifying the root issue is crucial for proper treatment. This article explores common and serious causes of right-sided lower abdominal discomfort, diagnostic approaches, and when immediate medical attention is necessary.
Common Causes in Men
In males, the lower right abdominal region houses structures such as the bladder and parts of the reproductive system, including the spermatic cord. One potential cause of pain in this area is varicocele, or varicose veins in the scrotum, which can lead to referred discomfort in the lower abdomen. Additionally, chronic or acute prostatitis—inflammation of the prostate gland—may trigger urinary symptoms and secondary bladder irritation, resulting in localized pain on the right side.
If inflammation spreads to the urinary tract, it may develop into cystitis, causing tenderness, frequent urination, and a burning sensation. To diagnose these conditions, doctors typically recommend imaging tests like ultrasound (B-scan) and laboratory evaluations such as urinalysis to detect infection or abnormalities.
Potential Causes in Women
For women, the right lower quadrant contains critical reproductive organs, most notably the right ovary and fallopian tube. Therefore, gynecological issues are often at the center of such pain. A common but potentially serious condition is an ovarian cyst. While many cysts are asymptomatic, larger ones or those that rupture can cause sharp, localized pain on the affected side.
Ovarian Cyst Torsion: A Medical Emergency
A particularly dangerous complication is ovarian cyst torsion, where the stalk supporting the cyst twists, cutting off blood supply to the ovary. This leads to sudden, severe pain, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Unlike general menstrual cramps, this pain does not subside with rest or over-the-counter medication and requires immediate surgical intervention.
Ectopic Pregnancy: A Life-Threatening Condition
Another critical concern in women of childbearing age is ectopic pregnancy, especially if there's a missed period, irregular vaginal bleeding, and intense unilateral abdominal pain. In an ectopic pregnancy, a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus—most commonly in the fallopian tube. As the embryo grows, it can cause the tube to rupture, leading to internal bleeding and shock. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring urgent surgery or medical treatment.
Other Possible Causes
Not all lower right abdominal pain is linked to reproductive organs. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), often caused by untreated sexually transmitted infections, can result in bilateral or one-sided pelvic pain, fever, and abnormal discharge. Chronic PID may lead to long-term fertility issues if not addressed early.
Additionally, some women experience dysmenorrhea—painful menstruation—that may radiate to both sides of the lower abdomen. While usually manageable with medication, persistent or worsening pain should prompt further evaluation to rule out conditions like endometriosis or adenomyosis.
Diagnosis and Next Steps
Because the causes range from mild to life-threatening, accurate diagnosis is essential. Physicians often use pelvic ultrasound, blood tests (including pregnancy tests), and sometimes CT scans to determine the source of pain. Early detection improves outcomes, especially in emergencies like ovarian torsion or ectopic pregnancy.
If you're experiencing persistent or severe pain in the lower right abdomen—especially with fever, vomiting, dizziness, or signs of internal bleeding—seek medical help immediately. Timely intervention can prevent complications and protect your long-term health.