What Causes Lower Right Abdominal Pain? A Complete Patient Guide

Lower right abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons people visit the emergency room or a gastro specialist. While some causes are mild and temporary, others may require immediate medical attention. Understanding what causes lower right abdominal pain can help you respond early, avoid complications, and know when to consult a doctor. 

This complete patient guide explains the causes of right lower abdominal pain, symptoms you should never ignore, diagnostic tests, and treatment options available at RG Hospitals. 

Understanding Lower Right Abdominal Pain 

The lower right side of your abdomen consists of several important structures—part of the small intestine, large intestine, appendix, right ureter, and in women, reproductive organs such as the right ovary and fallopian tube. Pain in this area may arise from any of these organs due to infection, inflammation, obstruction, or other medical conditions. 

Because so many organs are involved, lower right abdominal pain can be confusing and easy to misdiagnose without proper evaluation. 

Common Causes of Lower Right Abdominal Pain 

Below are the most frequent causes of right lower abdominal pain seen at RG Hospitals: 

1. Appendicitis (Most Common Cause) 

Appendicitis happens when the appendix becomes swollen or infected. 
Symptoms include: 

• Sharp pain starting near the navel, shifting to the right lower abdomen 

• Fever 

• Nausea and vomiting 

• Loss of appetite 

Appendicitis is a medical emergency. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent rupture. 

2. Gastrointestinal Issues 

Several digestive conditions can cause discomfort in the lower right abdomen. 

Constipation 

Hard stools and difficulty passing motions can stretch the intestines and lead to pain. 

Gastritis or Gastroenteritis 

Also known as stomach flu, it causes: 

• Cramps 

• Diarrhoea 

• Nausea 

• Mild to moderate abdominal pain 

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) 

Patients may experience: 

• Bloating 

• Cramping 

• Gas 

• Alternating constipation and diarrhoea 

3. Kidney & Urinary Conditions 

Problems involving the kidneys or urinary tract can also trigger lower right abdominal pain. 

Kidney Stones 

When a stone travels down the right ureter, it causes: 

• Severe, sharp pain 

• Burning urination 

• Blood in urine 

• Pain radiating to the back or groin 

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) 

A UTI on the right side may cause: 

• Lower abdominal pain 

• Frequent urination 

• Burning sensation 

• Cloudy urine 

4. Reproductive System Causes (Women) 

Women often experience right lower abdominal pain due to gynaecological conditions. 

Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz) 

Mid-cycle discomfort caused by egg release from the right ovary. 

Ovarian Cyst 

A ruptured or twisted ovarian cyst causes: 

• Sudden sharp pain 

• Bloating 

• Nausea 

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) 

An infection of reproductive organs causing: 

• Lower abdominal pain 

• Fever 

• Vaginal discharge 

Prompt treatment is necessary to avoid complications. 

5. Hernia 

An inguinal hernia on the right side can cause: 

• A visible or palpable bulge 

• Pain while lifting, coughing or standing 

• Heaviness in the groin 

Surgical repair may be needed. 

6. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) 

Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may cause: 

• Chronic right-sided abdominal pain 

• Weight loss 

• Diarrhoea 

• Fatigue 

These conditions require long-term management. 

Serious Causes That Require Immediate Medical Attention 

Seek urgent care at RG Hospitals if you notice: 

• Sudden, severe lower right abdominal pain 

• Persistent fever 

• Inability to pass gas or stool 

• Continuous vomiting 

• Dizziness or fainting 

• Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy 

These symptoms may indicate appendicitis, bowel obstruction, ectopic pregnancy, or kidney stone complications. 

How Lower Right Abdominal Pain is Diagnosed at RG Hospitals 

Doctors use a detailed clinical approach to determine what causes lower right abdominal pain in each patient. 

Diagnostic Tests May Include: 

• Blood tests – to check infection, inflammation, or anaemia 

• Urine analysis – to detect UTIs or kidney stones 

• Ultrasound – useful for appendicitis, ovarian cysts, and gallbladder issues 

• CT Scan – provides precise imaging for abdominal organs 

• Pelvic exam – for gynaecological issues in women 

Specialists such as gastroenterologists, urologists, nephrologists, and gynaecologists collaborate to ensure accurate diagnosis. 

Treatment Options 

Treatment depends entirely on the cause of right lower abdominal pain: 

• Appendicitis → surgery (appendectomy) 

• Kidney stones → medication, hydration, or minimally invasive procedures 

• UTI → antibiotics 

• Ovarian issues → pain relief, hormonal treatment, or surgery 

• Constipation & IBS → diet changes, medicines, lifestyle modifications 

• Hernia → surgical repair 

• Gastroenteritis → rest, fluids, supportive care 

At RG Hospitals, treatment plans are personalised for each patient’s condition and severity. 

When to See a Doctor 

Consult a specialist if your pain: 

• Lasts more than 24–48 hours 

• Worsens with movement 

• Is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or blood in urine/stool 

Early evaluation helps prevent serious complications. 

Conclusion 

Lower right abdominal pain can arise from many different causes—from simple digestive issues to urgent surgical conditions. Understanding what causes lower right abdominal pain helps you recognise symptoms early and seek appropriate care. If you experience persistent or severe discomfort, visit RG Hospitals for expert evaluation, advanced diagnostics, and reliable treatment.