Pain in the Right Side of Stomach: Causes & Treatment Options

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Published on: 23rd January 2025
Medically reviewed by: Dr Zainab Alhuishmawi

Abdominal pain is one of the most common health concerns affecting people of all ages. While occasional discomfort may not indicate a severe issue, persistent or intense pain often signals an underlying condition that requires medical attention. Right abdominal pain is particularly concerning, as it can be associated with various conditions, including digestive disorders, infections, or even medical emergencies.

In Qatar, dietary habits, hydration levels, and lifestyle choices significantly affect digestive health. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and possible treatments of pain in the lower right side of the stomach can help individuals take proactive steps toward relief and recovery.

This blog explores the causes and treatments of abdominal pain on the right side, highlighting when to seek medical attention and how home healthcare services like First Response Healthcare Center in Qatar provide convenient, timely care.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Right Abdominal Pain

The nature and intensity of pain in the right side of the stomach depend on its underlying cause. Some individuals may experience mild discomfort, while others might suffer sharp, persistent pain.

Common symptoms include:

Recognizing the symptoms of right abdominal pain early is crucial for timely intervention. The discomfort can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain, often localized to the right side abdominal region. This pain may worsen with movement, deep breathing, or pressure, indicating an underlying issue that requires medical attention.

Gastrointestinal disturbances often accompany the pain, including nausea, vomiting, and noticeable changes in bowel habits such as constipation, diarrhea, or persistent bloating. These symptoms may signal digestive disorders, infections, or inflammatory conditions affecting the intestines or appendix.

Fever, chills, and general fatigue may also develop, pointing to an infection that requires urgent care. In cases of appendicitis, gallbladder infections, or kidney-related issues, the presence of high fever alongside abdominal pain on the right side suggests a progressing condition that should not be ignored.

Additionally, tenderness when pressing on the affected area can indicate inflammation or internal irritation. While some causes of pain in the right side of the stomach may be mild, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated promptly.

Seeking professional care at the first signs of distress can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

Common Causes of Right Abdominal Pain

Appendicitis:

One of the most severe causes of right abdominal pain is appendicitis. The condition occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed, causing sharp pain in the lower right side of the stomach. Without timely medical attention, an inflamed appendix can rupture, leading to life-threatening complications.

Gallbladder Disease:

Gallstones or gallbladder infections can cause abdominal pain on the right side, especially after consuming fatty foods. The pain may radiate to the back or shoulders and often occurs alongside nausea and vomiting.

Kidney Stones and Infections:

A kidney infection or stones can lead to right side lower abdominal pain, often accompanied by painful urination, fever, and nausea.

Gastrointestinal Disorders:

Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and gastritis can trigger pain in the right side of the stomach, particularly when associated with bloating, cramps, or indigestion.

Liver Conditions:

The liver, located on the upper right side, can develop infections (such as hepatitis) or conditions like fatty liver disease, leading to right abdominal pain.

Reproductive Health Issues (for Women):

For women, conditions such as ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, or pelvic inflammatory disease can cause pain in the lower right side of the stomach.

Muscle Strain or Hernia:

Physical overexertion or a hernia can result in right side lower abdominal pain, particularly after lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activity.

How Does Abdominal Pain Progress?

The progression of abdominal pain on the right side varies depending on the cause:

Sudden, severe pain suggests appendicitis, kidney stones, or gallbladder inflammation.
Gradual onset with bloating may indicate digestive issues.
Pain triggered by eating fatty foods often points to gallbladder dysfunction.
Pain with fever suggests an infection that needs medical attention.
Recurring pain over weeks or months could indicate chronic conditions like IBS or gastritis.

Ignoring persistent right abdominal pain may lead to worsening symptoms and complications, making timely medical consultation essential.

Health Facts Related to Abdominal Pain

Appendicitis is the most common cause of emergency abdominal surgeries worldwide.
Gallstones are prevalent in women over 40, particularly after pregnancy.
Dehydration is a key factor in kidney stone formation, leading to severe pain in the lower right side of the stomach.
A diet high in processed foods and low in fiber contributes to IBS, a common cause of right side lower abdominal pain.

Home Remedies for Right Abdominal Pain

While home remedies do not replace medical care, they can provide relief for mild cases of pain in the right side of the stomach.

Hydration

Drinking plenty of water prevents kidney stones and aids digestion, reducing abdominal pain on the right side.

Herbal Infusions

Qatar’s traditional remedies include peppermint tea and chamomile tea, known for easing bloating and digestive discomfort.

Warm Compress

Applying heat to the affected area can relieve muscle tension and reduce right side lower abdominal pain.

Fennel Seeds

A staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, fennel seeds aid digestion and alleviate pain in the lower right side of the stomach.

Fiber-Rich Diet

Eating fiber-rich foods like dates, whole grains, and vegetables can prevent constipation, a common trigger for right abdominal pain.

If symptoms persist despite home care, seeking medical evaluation is essential.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

Persistent or intense pain in the right side of the stomach can sometimes signal a serious underlying condition that requires immediate medical attention. If the pain is severe and lasts for more than 24 hours, it could indicate conditions like appendicitis, gallbladder inflammation, or kidney infections, all of which demand urgent care.

A high fever exceeding 38°C (100.4°F), especially when accompanied by chills or sweating, may suggest an infection that needs prompt treatment to prevent complications. Additionally, vomiting, blood in stools, or persistent nausea could point to gastrointestinal bleeding or severe digestive disorders, both of which require emergency evaluation.

Pain that radiates to the back or chest should never be ignored, as it may indicate gallstones, pancreatitis, or even cardiac-related issues. Likewise, sudden, sharp pain that worsens with movement could be a sign of a ruptured appendix or another critical condition needing immediate medical intervention.

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to severe complications, including organ damage, sepsis, or emergency surgery. Seeking timely medical care is essential to prevent serious health risks and ensure appropriate treatment.

If you experience any of these symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional without delay is crucial.

Conclusion

At First Response Healthcare Center, we provide expert medical care whenever you need it, 24/7. Our experienced doctors are always on hand to offer immediate, professional attention in the comfort of your own home. Whether you require an accurate diagnosis, essential treatments, or recommendations for further testing, our home doctor services in Qatar eliminate the need for time-consuming hospital visits.

You can trust that expert medical professionals are just a call away, providing personalized care tailored to your needs. Experience seamless healthcare in the comfort of your home, all backed by our focus on reliability and efficiency.

For more information, visit our First Response Healthcare Center website and discover how our home healthcare services in Qatar can enhance your well-being.