The causes of pain on the right side can be very varied. Therefore, it is important to go to the doctor so that he can make an accurate diagnosis. While this symptom is not serious in some cases, it may require immediate medical attention on other occasions.
It should not be ignored that vital organs are involved in digestion or urinary function in this region of the body. Therefore, the possibility that it is related to an alteration in them cannot be ruled out. If it occurs, it will be necessary to be alert to other symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, or severe and prolonged pain.
Next, we will know the most frequent causes of pain on the right side. If so, professional help should be sought as soon as possible. You should not self-medicate or try therapies not endorsed by your doctor. Doing so could make the problem worse.
Contents
Organs found on the right side
On the right side, we find various organs, several of which are considered vital; these are the following:- a kidney
- a lung
- the right lobe of the liver
- Gallbladder
- part of the colon
- the appendix
- an ovary
Possible causes of pain in the right side
According to information published in the American Academy of Family Physicians, abdominal pain can represent a wide spectrum of conditions, ranging from benign to surgical emergencies. In this sense, and according to this same entity, the location of the pain is a useful starting point to guide further evaluation. Considering the above, it must be considered that pain in the right side can cause different problems associated with the organs in this region. Therefore, the doctor should suggest additional diagnostic tests once the symptoms have been evaluated. Below we review the most important conditions.1. Bone trauma
A common trigger for pain in the right side can be a rib injury in the area of the rib cage and ribs. Blows in the coastal area are very painful; when the ribcage is opened to breathe, the resolution of pain in this area is slow.
2. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is another possible cause of pain in the right side, although it is less common. The sensation is sharp and stabbing and worsens with deep breathing or coughing. This pathology is accompanied by cough, yellow mucus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. Sometimes, the origin of the pain is not typical of pneumonia itself but of one of its complications: pleural effusion. A research article refers to the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space that separates the lungs from the chest wall. The clinical picture can evolve even with the accumulation of pus, known as empyema.3. Gallstones
Right-side pain can also be caused by gallbladder problems such as gallstones. When “stones” block the bile duct and cause an infection, they can cause yellowing of the skin (jaundice) and fever. These symptoms, plus abdominal pain, are called Charcot’s triad and are characteristic of acute cholangitis.4. Gas
Sometimes gases are the cause of pain. Right-side pain from this cause tends to occur when gas is trapped or does not move well through the digestive system. This is caused because digestion was not done correctly or also because of constipation.5. Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix; It is usually one of the most common causes of pain on the right side, specifically in the lower abdomen, as highlighted in a publication in the National Center for Biotechnology Information. It can manifest in people of any age, but it is most common between 10 and 30. Symptoms usually begin with abdominal pain in the center (periumbilical) or upper abdomen; then, it moves to the lower area, on the right side. When applying pressure and then withdrawing the hand, sharp pain is perceived. In the case of suffering from appendicitis, you may feel nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and suffer from diarrhea. In this case, you have to go to the emergency room quickly. Immediate surgical intervention may be required.6. Pancreatitis
The pancreas is located below the liver and behind the stomach. Diseases of this organ, such as pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis, can cause pain on the right side.
7. Abdominal hernia
Abdominal hernia operations are frequent and serve to prevent a strangulated hernia from occurring. Depending on its position, the hernia can cause pain on the right side; if so, it is felt more by touching the affected area. It may cause nausea or vomiting frequently.8. Kidney problems
Infection in the bladder or any part of the urinary tract can spread to the kidneys and cause inflammation and pain. This occurs in the lower right of the abdomen but can then spread to the back.9. Colon
The ascending colon is located on the right side of the abdomen. Pain in the right side is likely caused by intestine inflammation, such as colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, or Crohn’s disease.10. Ovarian cysts
Cysts are small structures found on the surface of or within an ovary. Although most are benign, they can cause pain when they grow larger or rupture, according to the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG).11. Spinal problems
If the pain in the right side is located behind the back, it may be due to a problem in the spine. This includes scoliosis, although there can be rotations or displacements in the vertebrae, even impingement.Diagnosis of pain in the right side
As we have just seen, there are many possible causes to explain pain in the side of the body. For this reason, instead of assuming, it is essential to consult a professional. According to information published in the International Journal of General Medicine, the following should be considered for diagnosis:
- Since when do you have pain?
- What symptoms accompany it?
- location of pain
- Duration and progression of the same.
- If it is in the ribs, it is necessary to know if there is a cough or fever, if the area has been hit, if there is a feeling of lack of air when breathing, or if there are skin lesions.
- Past medical and surgical history.
- inspection, auscultation, and percussion
- peritoneal irritation tests
- rectal exam
- special abdominal examination techniques
- spinal x-ray