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| Meta Title | Common causes of pain in the lower abdomen |
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| Boilerpipe Text | Various conditions can cause pain in the lower right abdomen. This includes more serious issues, such as appendicitis. It also involves indigestion, cramps, and bowel issues.
The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis. It contains vital organs involved in digestion, such as the intestines and the liver. In addition, the lower right portion of the abdomen includes a part of the colon and the right ovary in females.
This article outlines the potential causes of pain in the lower right abdomen, their symptoms, and whether someone should seek medical assistance for them.
In some cases, pain in the lower right abdomen can indicate a more serious condition that will require immediate medical assistance.
Appendicitis
When the pain is specific to the lower right abdomen,
appendicitis
is one of the
most common
causes. The appendix is a tube-like structure attached to the large intestines.
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix inflames, causing pain in the middle of the abdomen that spreads to the right lower abdomen, where the pain becomes severe.
fever
diarrhea
low appetite
nausea
vomiting
weakness
In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the appendix to relieve the pain.
Appendix removal
typically poses no additional health risks.
Kidney stones
Nephrolithiasis, also known as kidney stones, is a
common condition
. Minerals build up in the kidney to form stones, most of which are composed of calcium.
The size of
kidney stones
can vary. The smaller stones can pass through the urinary system with ease, but larger stones can get stuck and cause severe pain around the lower back, side, abdomen, and groin.
As the stones move throughout the urinary system, the pain will vary in location and severity.
Other symptoms can include:
blood in the urine
nausea
vomiting
fever
chills
Kidney infection
Bacteria in the urinary system can
infect
one or both kidneys. As a result, pain typically occurs in the lower back, side, and groin. However, one can also feel pain in the lower abdomen.
Medical intervention
may be necessary
to prevent permanent damage from a
kidney infection
. Higher-risk patients such as those that are pregnant, have diabetes, or received a kidney transplant, may be more likely to require medical assistance.
Symptoms can include:
flank pain
fever
nausea
vomiting
painful urination
increased frequency and urge to urinate
Hernia
A
hernia
is where internal organs or tissues push through a weakening in a muscle or tissue wall and cause a small lump. The condition
most commonly
happens around the abdominal area.
Groin
and
femoral
hernias often occur on the right side, and their severity may increase over time. Depending on the severity of the hernia, someone may or may not require
surgery
or other treatments.
Irritable bowel syndrome
IBS can cause pain in the abdominal area along with other symptoms,
including
:
stomach cramps
diarrhea
constipation
bloating
gas
Inflammatory bowel disease
They can cause pain in the lower abdomen
plus
:
weight loss
tiredness
frequent urge to have a bowel movement
persistent diarrhea, often with
blood
Pain in the lower right abdomen can mean several different things. Furthermore, it can often be brief and requires no medical attention. These less severe causes include the following.
Intestinal spasms
Intestinal spasms, or
stomach spasms
, can cause lower abdominal pain. However, these are generally fleeting and not cause for concern.
They occur when the muscles in the intestines or stomach contract. They can be due to underlying issues, such as gas or bloating.
Intestinal gas
Gas can build up in the intestines when food does not digest properly,
causing
feelings of discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region.
There are significant anatomical differences between the abdomens of males and females. These differences mean pain in the lower right abdomen can have gender-specific causes.
These conditions also require immediate medical attention. Causes specific to females include the following.
Menstrual cramps
Females
can experience
abdominal pain before or during their
period
. They may also experience
aches
in their back and chest, and feelings of nausea or
headaches
.
Ovarian cyst
Cysts
are sacs that can develop on the ovaries. They are
often harmless
, but larger ones can cause dull or sharp pain in the abdomen.
Other symptoms can include:
nausea
vomiting
irregular periods
abnormally heavy or light periods
Endometriosis
Endometriosis
is where endometrial-like tissue grows in other areas, like the ovaries or the stomach. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back. Endometrial tissue forms the lining of the uterus.
The severity of symptoms varies and can
include
:
severe period pains
pain during or after sex
pain when urinating or emptying bowels during a period
infertility
Pelvic inflammatory disease
They can include:
pelvic pain
vaginal discharge
pain during or after sex
abnormal vaginal bleeding
Ectopic pregnancy
An
ectopic pregnancy
can occur when a fertilized egg is present outside the uterus, such as in one of the fallopian tubes. It can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms,
including
:
pelvic pain
nausea
vomiting
lightheadedness
fainting
vaginal bleeding
missed period
Ovarian torsion
The
ovaries
can twist with surrounding tissues, restricting blood flow and causing severe pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms can
include
:
pelvic pain
flank pain
nausea
vomiting
Causes specific to males include the following.
Inguinal hernia
Inguinal hernias
typically occur when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through passages in the lower abdomen. These hernias
more commonly
occur in males.
An inguinal hernia causes a small lump to develop at the top of the thigh and can cause abdominal pain.
Testicular torsion
The spermatic cords that attach to the
testicles
can twist and restrict blood flow, causing pain in the abdomen and other symptoms
including
:
a testicle in a higher position
nausea
vomiting
pain and
swelling
in the scrotum
Treatment depends on the cause of the pain.
At home treatments
People may be able to treat less severe causes of pain in the lower right abdomen with
home remedies
, rest, and OTC medications.
Causes such as abdominal gas and indigestion can pass without the need for treatment.
People with IBS may be able to manage pain and discomfort from the condition with dietary and lifestyle changes, medications, and therapy.
However, in more severe cases of abdominal pain, pain relievers and home remedies may not be enough to treat symptoms.
If a person experiences new and unexplained abdominal pain they should contact a healthcare professional. If they have heartburn or indigestion that lasts more than a couple of weeks, they may need to contact a healthcare professional for other treatment options.
Anyone who has questions or concerns about abdominal pain or other symptoms should speak with a healthcare professional.
When is it an emergency?
If pain is severe or continuous, a person may require medical assistance. For example, a person with a kidney infection would require antibiotic medications to remedy their pain.
Surgery may be necessary for some people with severe abdominal pain. For example, appendicitis requires removing the appendix, known as an appendectomy, and kidney stones often require intravenous (IV) pain management while a stone passes, or
surgery
such as lithotripsy.
Some conditions that cause this pain, such as endometriosis and IBD, are chronic, and only the management of symptoms is possible.
Whatever the treatment, seeking care for persistent or severe pain in the lower right abdomen can help an individual resume a good quality of life.
Abdominal pain has several possible causes in which many of the same symptoms overlap, such as nausea and vomiting.
Everyone should listen to their body and always speak to their healthcare professional if they’re concerned, especially if symptoms persist or interfere with daily life. |
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# What is this pain in my lower right abdomen?

[Medically reviewed]() by [Kelsey Trull, PA-C]() — Written by [Aaron Kandola]() — [Updated on May 28, 2024]()
- [More severe causes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320858#more-severe-causes)
- [Less serious causes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320858#less-serious-causes)
- [Females causes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320858#females-causes)
- [Male causes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320858#male-causes)
- [Treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320858#treatment)
- [Contacting a doctor](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320858#contacting-a-doctor)
- [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320858#summary)
Various conditions can cause pain in the lower right abdomen. This includes more serious issues, such as appendicitis. It also involves indigestion, cramps, and bowel issues.
The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis. It contains vital organs involved in digestion, such as the intestines and the liver. In addition, the lower right portion of the abdomen includes a part of the colon and the right ovary in females.
This article outlines the potential causes of pain in the lower right abdomen, their symptoms, and whether someone should seek medical assistance for them.
## [More severe causes of lower right abdominal pain]()

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In some cases, pain in the lower right abdomen can indicate a more serious condition that will require immediate medical assistance.
### Appendicitis
When the pain is specific to the lower right abdomen, [appendicitis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158806) is one of the [most common](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459328/) causes. The appendix is a tube-like structure attached to the large intestines.
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix inflames, causing pain in the middle of the abdomen that spreads to the right lower abdomen, where the pain becomes severe.
Other symptoms can [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493193/):
- [fever](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/168266)
- [diarrhea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158634)
- [low appetite](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324011)
- [nausea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/269511)
- [vomiting](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vomiting)
- [weakness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/asthenia-weakness)
In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the appendix to relieve the pain. [Appendix removal](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323805) typically poses no additional health risks.
### Kidney stones
Nephrolithiasis, also known as kidney stones, is a [common condition](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559227/). Minerals build up in the kidney to form stones, most of which are composed of calcium.
The size of [kidney stones](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/154193) can vary. The smaller stones can pass through the urinary system with ease, but larger stones can get stuck and cause severe pain around the lower back, side, abdomen, and groin.
As the stones move throughout the urinary system, the pain will vary in location and severity.
Other symptoms can include:
- [blood in the urine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324824)
- nausea
- vomiting
- fever
- [chills](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chills)
### Kidney infection
Bacteria in the urinary system can [infect](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182306) one or both kidneys. As a result, pain typically occurs in the lower back, side, and groin. However, one can also feel pain in the lower abdomen.
Medical intervention [may be necessary](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519537/) to prevent permanent damage from a [kidney infection](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182306). Higher-risk patients such as those that are pregnant, have diabetes, or received a kidney transplant, may be more likely to require medical assistance.
Symptoms can include:
- [flank pain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324592)
- fever
- nausea
- vomiting
- [painful urination](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323105)
- increased frequency and urge to urinate
Kidney infections can be mistaken for [urinary tract infections (UTIs)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/189953), such as [cystitis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/152997), with similar symptoms.
### Hernia
A [hernia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/142334) is where internal organs or tissues push through a weakening in a muscle or tissue wall and cause a small lump. The condition [most commonly](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555972/) happens around the abdominal area.
[Groin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/311574) and [femoral](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324118) hernias often occur on the right side, and their severity may increase over time. Depending on the severity of the hernia, someone may or may not require [surgery](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319753) or other treatments.
### Irritable bowel syndrome
[Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/37063) is a chronic digestive system condition.
IBS can cause pain in the abdominal area along with other symptoms, [including](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534810/):
- stomach cramps
- diarrhea
- [constipation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150322)
- [bloating](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321869)
- [gas](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7622)
### Inflammatory bowel disease
[Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316395) is a group of conditions that affect the digestive system.
[Ulcerative colitis (UC)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/163772) and [Crohn’s disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/151620) both cause an inflammation of the gut and make up most cases of IBD.
They can cause pain in the lower abdomen [plus](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470312/):
- [weight loss](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326417)
- tiredness
- frequent urge to have a bowel movement
- persistent diarrhea, often with [blood](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/blood-in-stool)
## [Less serious causes of lower right abdominal pain]()
Pain in the lower right abdomen can mean several different things. Furthermore, it can often be brief and requires no medical attention. These less severe causes include the following.
### Intestinal spasms
Intestinal spasms, or [stomach spasms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321096), can cause lower abdominal pain. However, these are generally fleeting and not cause for concern.
They occur when the muscles in the intestines or stomach contract. They can be due to underlying issues, such as gas or bloating.
### Intestinal gas
Gas can build up in the intestines when food does not digest properly, [causing](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gas-digestive-tract/symptoms-causes) feelings of discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region.
## [Causes in females]()
### A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. [Learn more.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/232363)
There are significant anatomical differences between the abdomens of males and females. These differences mean pain in the lower right abdomen can have gender-specific causes.
These conditions also require immediate medical attention. Causes specific to females include the following.
### Menstrual cramps
Females [can experience](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560698/) abdominal pain before or during their [period](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/312661). They may also experience [aches](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157333) in their back and chest, and feelings of nausea or [headaches](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327480).
### Ovarian cyst
[Cysts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/179031) are sacs that can develop on the ovaries. They are [often harmless](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560541/), but larger ones can cause dull or sharp pain in the abdomen.
Other symptoms can include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- [irregular periods](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178635)
- abnormally heavy or light periods
### Endometriosis
[Endometriosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149109) is where endometrial-like tissue grows in other areas, like the ovaries or the stomach. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back. Endometrial tissue forms the lining of the uterus.
The severity of symptoms varies and can [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK567777/):
- severe period pains
- [pain during or after sex](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/192590)
- pain when urinating or emptying bowels during a period
- [infertility](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/165748)
### Pelvic inflammatory disease
[Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/177923) is an infection of the genital tract. It can cause abdominal pain, but symptoms [are often](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499959/) mild and infrequent.
They can include:
- [pelvic pain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323960)
- [vaginal discharge](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/discharge-definition)
- pain during or after sex
- abnormal vaginal bleeding
### Ectopic pregnancy
An [ectopic pregnancy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/164989) can occur when a fertilized egg is present outside the uterus, such as in one of the fallopian tubes. It can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms, [including](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539860/):
- pelvic pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- lightheadedness
- [fainting](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182524)
- vaginal bleeding
- [missed period](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318317)
### Ovarian torsion
The [ovaries](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322666) can twist with surrounding tissues, restricting blood flow and causing severe pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms can [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560675/):
- pelvic pain
- flank pain
- nausea
- vomiting
## [Causes in males]()
Causes specific to males include the following.
### Inguinal hernia
[Inguinal hernias](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/311574) typically occur when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through passages in the lower abdomen. These hernias [more commonly](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/inguinal-hernia) occur in males.
An inguinal hernia causes a small lump to develop at the top of the thigh and can cause abdominal pain.
### Testicular torsion
The spermatic cords that attach to the [testicles](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/190514) can twist and restrict blood flow, causing pain in the abdomen and other symptoms [including](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448199/):
- a testicle in a higher position
- nausea
- vomiting
- pain and [swelling](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327419) in the scrotum
## [Treatment for lower right abdominal pain]()
Treatment depends on the cause of the pain.
### At home treatments
People may be able to treat less severe causes of pain in the lower right abdomen with [home remedies](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322047), rest, and OTC medications.
Causes such as abdominal gas and indigestion can pass without the need for treatment.
People with IBS may be able to manage pain and discomfort from the condition with dietary and lifestyle changes, medications, and therapy.
However, in more severe cases of abdominal pain, pain relievers and home remedies may not be enough to treat symptoms.
Learn more about [managing symptoms of IBS](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319546).
## [When to seek help]()
If a person experiences new and unexplained abdominal pain they should contact a healthcare professional. If they have heartburn or indigestion that lasts more than a couple of weeks, they may need to contact a healthcare professional for other treatment options.
Anyone who has questions or concerns about abdominal pain or other symptoms should speak with a healthcare professional.
### When is it an emergency?
If pain is severe or continuous, a person may require medical assistance. For example, a person with a kidney infection would require antibiotic medications to remedy their pain.
Surgery may be necessary for some people with severe abdominal pain. For example, appendicitis requires removing the appendix, known as an appendectomy, and kidney stones often require intravenous (IV) pain management while a stone passes, or [surgery](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/kidney-stone-surgery) such as lithotripsy.
Some conditions that cause this pain, such as endometriosis and IBD, are chronic, and only the management of symptoms is possible.
Whatever the treatment, seeking care for persistent or severe pain in the lower right abdomen can help an individual resume a good quality of life.
## [Summary]()
Abdominal pain has several possible causes in which many of the same symptoms overlap, such as nausea and vomiting.
Everyone should listen to their body and always speak to their healthcare professional if they’re concerned, especially if symptoms persist or interfere with daily life.
- [GastroIntestinal / Gastroenterology](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/gastrointestinal)
- [Pain / Anesthetics](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/pain)
- [Urology / Nephrology](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/urology-nephrology)
- [Women's Health / Gynecology](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/womens_health)
### How we reviewed this article:
Sources
Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process).
- Belyayeva M, et al. (2024). Acute pyelonephritis.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519537/>
- Guile S, et al. (2023). Ovarian torison.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560675/>
- Inguinal hernia. (2019).
<https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/inguinal-hernia>
- Jennings L K, et al. (2023). Pelvic inflammatory disease.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499959/>
- Jones M W, et al. (2024). Appendicitis.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493193/>
- McDowell C, et al. (2023). Inflammatory bowel disease.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470312/>
- Mobee S, et al. (2023). Ovarian cyst.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560541/>
- Mummert T, et al. (2023). Ectopic pregnancy.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539860/>
- Nojaba L, et al. (2023). Nephrolithiasis.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559227/>
- Pastorino A, et al. (2022). Strangulated hernia.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555972/>
- Patel N, et al. (2022). Irritable bowel syndrome.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534810/>
- Patterson J W, et al. (2023). Acute abdomen.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459328/>
- Schick M A, et al. (2023). Testicular torsion.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448199/>
- Symptoms & causes of gas in the digestive tract. (2021).
<https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gas-digestive-tract/symptoms-causes>
- Symptoms & causes of indigestion. (2016).
<https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/indigestion-dyspepsia/symptoms-causes>
- Tsamantioti E S, et al. (2023). Endometriosis.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK567777/>
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[Medically reviewed]() by [Kelsey Trull, PA-C]() — Written by [Aaron Kandola]() — [Updated on May 28, 2024]()
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| Readable Markdown | Various conditions can cause pain in the lower right abdomen. This includes more serious issues, such as appendicitis. It also involves indigestion, cramps, and bowel issues.
The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis. It contains vital organs involved in digestion, such as the intestines and the liver. In addition, the lower right portion of the abdomen includes a part of the colon and the right ovary in females.
This article outlines the potential causes of pain in the lower right abdomen, their symptoms, and whether someone should seek medical assistance for them.
In some cases, pain in the lower right abdomen can indicate a more serious condition that will require immediate medical assistance.
Appendicitis
When the pain is specific to the lower right abdomen, [appendicitis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158806) is one of the [most common](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459328/) causes. The appendix is a tube-like structure attached to the large intestines.
Appendicitis occurs when the appendix inflames, causing pain in the middle of the abdomen that spreads to the right lower abdomen, where the pain becomes severe.
- [fever](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/168266)
- [diarrhea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158634)
- [low appetite](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324011)
- [nausea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/269511)
- [vomiting](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vomiting)
- [weakness](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/asthenia-weakness)
In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the appendix to relieve the pain. [Appendix removal](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323805) typically poses no additional health risks.
Kidney stones
Nephrolithiasis, also known as kidney stones, is a [common condition](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559227/). Minerals build up in the kidney to form stones, most of which are composed of calcium.
The size of [kidney stones](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/154193) can vary. The smaller stones can pass through the urinary system with ease, but larger stones can get stuck and cause severe pain around the lower back, side, abdomen, and groin.
As the stones move throughout the urinary system, the pain will vary in location and severity.
Other symptoms can include:
- [blood in the urine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324824)
- nausea
- vomiting
- fever
- [chills](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/chills)
Kidney infection
Bacteria in the urinary system can [infect](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182306) one or both kidneys. As a result, pain typically occurs in the lower back, side, and groin. However, one can also feel pain in the lower abdomen.
Medical intervention [may be necessary](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519537/) to prevent permanent damage from a [kidney infection](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182306). Higher-risk patients such as those that are pregnant, have diabetes, or received a kidney transplant, may be more likely to require medical assistance.
Symptoms can include:
- [flank pain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324592)
- fever
- nausea
- vomiting
- [painful urination](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323105)
- increased frequency and urge to urinate
Hernia
A [hernia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/142334) is where internal organs or tissues push through a weakening in a muscle or tissue wall and cause a small lump. The condition [most commonly](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK555972/) happens around the abdominal area.
[Groin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/311574) and [femoral](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324118) hernias often occur on the right side, and their severity may increase over time. Depending on the severity of the hernia, someone may or may not require [surgery](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319753) or other treatments.
Irritable bowel syndrome
IBS can cause pain in the abdominal area along with other symptoms, [including](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534810/):
- stomach cramps
- diarrhea
- [constipation](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150322)
- [bloating](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321869)
- [gas](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7622)
Inflammatory bowel disease
They can cause pain in the lower abdomen [plus](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470312/):
- [weight loss](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326417)
- tiredness
- frequent urge to have a bowel movement
- persistent diarrhea, often with [blood](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/blood-in-stool)
Pain in the lower right abdomen can mean several different things. Furthermore, it can often be brief and requires no medical attention. These less severe causes include the following.
Intestinal spasms
Intestinal spasms, or [stomach spasms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321096), can cause lower abdominal pain. However, these are generally fleeting and not cause for concern.
They occur when the muscles in the intestines or stomach contract. They can be due to underlying issues, such as gas or bloating.
Intestinal gas
Gas can build up in the intestines when food does not digest properly, [causing](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/gas-digestive-tract/symptoms-causes) feelings of discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region.
There are significant anatomical differences between the abdomens of males and females. These differences mean pain in the lower right abdomen can have gender-specific causes.
These conditions also require immediate medical attention. Causes specific to females include the following.
Menstrual cramps
Females [can experience](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560698/) abdominal pain before or during their [period](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/312661). They may also experience [aches](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/157333) in their back and chest, and feelings of nausea or [headaches](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327480).
Ovarian cyst
[Cysts](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/179031) are sacs that can develop on the ovaries. They are [often harmless](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560541/), but larger ones can cause dull or sharp pain in the abdomen.
Other symptoms can include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- [irregular periods](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178635)
- abnormally heavy or light periods
Endometriosis
[Endometriosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149109) is where endometrial-like tissue grows in other areas, like the ovaries or the stomach. It is a chronic condition and can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back. Endometrial tissue forms the lining of the uterus.
The severity of symptoms varies and can [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK567777/):
- severe period pains
- [pain during or after sex](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/192590)
- pain when urinating or emptying bowels during a period
- [infertility](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/165748)
Pelvic inflammatory disease
They can include:
- [pelvic pain](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323960)
- [vaginal discharge](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/discharge-definition)
- pain during or after sex
- abnormal vaginal bleeding
Ectopic pregnancy
An [ectopic pregnancy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/164989) can occur when a fertilized egg is present outside the uterus, such as in one of the fallopian tubes. It can cause pain in the abdomen and other symptoms, [including](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539860/):
- pelvic pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- lightheadedness
- [fainting](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182524)
- vaginal bleeding
- [missed period](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318317)
Ovarian torsion
The [ovaries](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322666) can twist with surrounding tissues, restricting blood flow and causing severe pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms can [include](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560675/):
- pelvic pain
- flank pain
- nausea
- vomiting
Causes specific to males include the following.
Inguinal hernia
[Inguinal hernias](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/311574) typically occur when fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pushes through passages in the lower abdomen. These hernias [more commonly](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/inguinal-hernia) occur in males.
An inguinal hernia causes a small lump to develop at the top of the thigh and can cause abdominal pain.
Testicular torsion
The spermatic cords that attach to the [testicles](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/190514) can twist and restrict blood flow, causing pain in the abdomen and other symptoms [including](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448199/):
- a testicle in a higher position
- nausea
- vomiting
- pain and [swelling](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327419) in the scrotum
Treatment depends on the cause of the pain.
At home treatments
People may be able to treat less severe causes of pain in the lower right abdomen with [home remedies](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322047), rest, and OTC medications.
Causes such as abdominal gas and indigestion can pass without the need for treatment.
People with IBS may be able to manage pain and discomfort from the condition with dietary and lifestyle changes, medications, and therapy.
However, in more severe cases of abdominal pain, pain relievers and home remedies may not be enough to treat symptoms.
If a person experiences new and unexplained abdominal pain they should contact a healthcare professional. If they have heartburn or indigestion that lasts more than a couple of weeks, they may need to contact a healthcare professional for other treatment options.
Anyone who has questions or concerns about abdominal pain or other symptoms should speak with a healthcare professional.
When is it an emergency?
If pain is severe or continuous, a person may require medical assistance. For example, a person with a kidney infection would require antibiotic medications to remedy their pain.
Surgery may be necessary for some people with severe abdominal pain. For example, appendicitis requires removing the appendix, known as an appendectomy, and kidney stones often require intravenous (IV) pain management while a stone passes, or [surgery](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/kidney-stone-surgery) such as lithotripsy.
Some conditions that cause this pain, such as endometriosis and IBD, are chronic, and only the management of symptoms is possible.
Whatever the treatment, seeking care for persistent or severe pain in the lower right abdomen can help an individual resume a good quality of life.
Abdominal pain has several possible causes in which many of the same symptoms overlap, such as nausea and vomiting.
Everyone should listen to their body and always speak to their healthcare professional if they’re concerned, especially if symptoms persist or interfere with daily life. |
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