Pain on the right side of the body: What could it mean?

Feeling pain on the right side of your body can be concerning, especially when the reason behind it isn’t immediately clear.

This type of discomfort can range from a dull ache to intense pain and may be caused by a variety of health conditions. Recognizing the potential sources and related symptoms is key to finding the right treatment path.

Getting to Know Right-Sided Pain

The right side of the body contains numerous essential organs and bodily systems, including sections of the digestive, urinary, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems. Since pain can come from any of these areas, a precise diagnosis is vital.

Frequent Causes of Right-Side Discomfort

1. Appendicitis
This is an inflammation of the appendix, a small organ connected to the large intestine. It generally starts with pain near the belly button, gradually moving to the lower right abdomen.

You may also notice symptoms like nausea, fever, vomiting, and a lack of appetite. If not treated promptly, a ruptured appendix can cause severe complications.

2. Gallbladder Problems
Located beneath the liver, the gallbladder stores bile for digestion. Issues like gallstones or gallbladder inflammation (known as cholecystitis) can trigger intense pain in the upper right abdomen, particularly after eating rich, fatty foods. Nausea, vomiting, and fever are common accompanying symptoms.

3. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are solid mineral formations that can cause excruciating pain when they travel into the ureter. This pain typically occurs in the lower back or side under the ribs. Other signs may include painful urination, discolored urine (pink or brown), and nausea.

4. Liver Disorders
The liver takes up a large part of the upper right abdominal region. Conditions like hepatitis, liver abscesses, or tumors can result in either a dull ache or sharp pain in that area.

You might also experience symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), fatigue, and dark-colored urine.

5. Muscular or Skeletal Problems
Pain from strained muscles, ligament injuries, or spinal issues can also affect the right side. These problems may arise from poor posture, repetitive motion, or physical trauma. Conditions like arthritis or herniated discs may also be contributing factors.

6. Ovarian Cysts
In women, cysts on the ovaries—fluid-filled sacs—can lead to pain on one side, including the right. If a cyst becomes large or ruptures, it may cause sharp pelvic pain, bloating, and irregular menstrual patterns.

7. Constipation
Chronic or severe constipation can cause pressure and pain in various parts of the abdomen, including the right side. This is typically due to stool accumulating in the colon. Dietary changes, such as more fiber, staying hydrated, and regular exercise, often provide relief.

8. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a long-term condition affecting the large intestine, causing symptoms like cramping, bloating, gas, and alternating diarrhea or constipation. Depending on the person, the pain may appear on the right side of the abdomen.

9. Pneumonia
Although primarily a lung condition, pneumonia in the right lung can sometimes cause discomfort in the right chest or upper abdominal region. The pain may worsen when breathing deeply or coughing.

10. Pancreatitis
This is inflammation of the pancreas, which can bring about upper abdominal pain that may extend to the back. When the inflammation is on the right side, pain is often centered there. Additional symptoms include fever, nausea, and vomiting.

When You Should See a Doctor

Though some instances of right-sided pain are minor and resolve on their own, others may signal more serious issues. It’s important to seek medical help right away if you notice: