What Does Right Lower Abdomen Pain Indicate? A Guide to Potential Causes

Right lower abdominal pain is a common concern we see at Triad Internal Medicine. This type of pain can be caused by a wide range of conditions, some minor and others more serious. One of the most well-known causes is appendicitis, which often begins with discomfort near the belly button and then shifts to the lower right side. Quick evaluation and diagnosis are crucial, as untreated appendicitis can lead to complications.

Other possible causes include gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, gas, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), all of which are regularly managed in our office. For women, gynecological conditions like ovarian cysts, ovulation pain (mittelschmerz), or pelvic inflammatory disease can also result in right lower abdominal pain. Additionally, urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially those affecting the lower urinary tract, can present with pain in this region.

Less commonly, conditions such as hernias, kidney stones, or inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease may be responsible. Because the underlying causes are so varied, our team emphasizes the importance of paying attention to additional symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits.

Appendicitis pain often starts near the belly button and then shifts to the lower right abdomen. It typically becomes more severe and may be accompanied by symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal tenderness. Because appendicitis can quickly become serious if not treated promptly, it is crucial to seek medical care if you experience these symptoms.

However, not all right lower abdominal pain is due to appendicitis. At Triad Internal Medicine, our experienced healthcare providers also consider other possible causes, including gastrointestinal infections, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, ovarian cysts in women, and even muscle strain.

If you are experiencing persistent or worsening pain in the lower right abdomen, especially with additional symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our team at Triad Internal Medicine. Our providers will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical exam, laboratory tests, and imaging studies, to accurately diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend the appropriate treatment.

At Triad Internal Medicine, we often see patients concerned about right lower abdominal pain. In many cases, this discomfort can be caused by something as simple as gas or bloating. The intestines run throughout the abdomen, including the right lower quadrant, and when excess gas builds up, it can stretch or distend the intestines, leading to crampy, intermittent pain. You might also notice a sensation of fullness, visible abdominal swelling, or changes in your bowel habits, such as increased flatulence.

However, while gas and bloating are common and usually harmless, right lower abdominal pain can sometimes be a sign of more serious conditions including appendicitis, ovarian issues in women, or gastrointestinal infections. If your pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like fever, vomiting, or significant changes in your bowel movements, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

At Triad Internal Medicine, our experienced providers take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing pain in the right lower abdomen. We begin with a thorough medical history, asking detailed questions about when the pain started, how long it has lasted, its intensity, and any other symptoms you may be experiencing, such as fever, nausea, vomiting, changes in bowel habits, or urinary issues. Understanding your overall health, recent injuries, previous surgeries, and any chronic conditions helps us personalize your care.

During your visit, your doctor will perform a careful physical examination, focusing on the right lower quadrant of your abdomen. We assess for tenderness, swelling, or masses, and look for specific signs, such as rebound tenderness or guarding, that may indicate inflammation, like in cases of appendicitis.

Based on our findings, we may recommend further diagnostic testing. Our office can perform blood tests to detect infection or inflammation, and urine tests to check for urinary tract infections or kidney stones. For women of reproductive age, we routinely perform pregnancy testing to rule out ectopic pregnancy and other gynecologic causes.

Abdominal ultrasound is often our first choice, especially for children and pregnant women, as it helps us evaluate for appendicitis, ovarian cysts, or ectopic pregnancy. In certain cases, we may order a CT scan or MRI to gain a more detailed view and better distinguish between potential causes of your pain.

At Triad Internal Medicine, our team, led by Dr. Keung Lee, MD, PhD, MHA, is dedicated to providing expert and compassionate care for patients experiencing right lower abdominal pain. We understand that discomfort in this area can stem from a wide range of causes—from minor issues such as muscle strain or gastrointestinal upset to more serious conditions like appendicitis, ovarian cysts, or infections.

When you visit Triad Internal Medicine for right lower abdominal pain, Dr. Lee and our experienced staff will begin with a thorough medical history and physical examination. We pay close attention to the specific features of your pain, including its onset, duration, and whether you are experiencing related symptoms such as nausea, fever, changes in bowel habits, or urinary problems.

To determine the precise cause of your symptoms, we may recommend diagnostic testing. These could include blood work, urine analysis, or advanced imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, all conveniently coordinated through our practice. Based on the results, Dr. Lee will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Your care plan may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or, if necessary, referral to a trusted specialist for further evaluation or surgical consultation.

At Triad Internal Medicine, patient education and open communication are at the core of our approach. Dr. Lee ensures that you are fully informed about your diagnosis and all available treatment options, empowering you to make the best decisions for your health. Our commitment is to deliver evidence-based, patient-centered care, helping you find relief and achieve the best possible outcome for your abdominal pain. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 138-B Dublin Square Rd, Asheboro, NC 27203. We serve patients from Asheboro, NC, Redding Hills, NC, Greensboro, NC, Randleman, NC, Sophia, NC, and Grays Chapel, NC.