Abdominal pain may stem from a wide variety of sources, including within the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and reproductive systems, according the the American College of Gastroenterology. Depending on the underlying cause, abdominal pain may be either inconsequential or serious. When concern develops, a qualified health professional can determine a diagnosis and appropriate course of treatment.
Gallbladder Dysfunction
The gallbladder is a small organ located in the upper right abdomen, and pain in that area may point to a gallbladder problem. The gallbladder stores bile, a substance that helps the body to digest dietary fats. Stones may form in the gallbladder, and if they exit the gallbladder though a bile duct, pain ensues. According to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, gallbladder dysfunction pain may last for 30 minutes or for many hours and occurs at night or following meals. It may start in the upper right abdomen and radiate to the back. Other possible symptoms include bloating, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
Hepatitis
The liver is a detoxifying organ that sits in the upper right abdomen, above the gallbladder. Hepatitis, inflammation of the liver, may be caused by a virus or by alcohol or drug use. In addition to right upper abdominal pain, people with hepatitis may experience nausea, fever, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the skin, known as jaundice. The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library states that in cases of chronic hepatitis, symptoms may be more subtle, such as nonspecific upper abdominal discomfort, fatigue, minor fever and general physical discomfort.
Muscle Strain
Upper abdominal pain may result from a strained muscle in the abdomen or chest wall. Commonly there will be tenderness with pressure on the specific muscle, as well as increased pain with movement. Muscle strains typically result from injury or overuse of the muscle. The pain resolves with time and rest, as the muscle heals.
Pancreatitis
The pancreas is yet another organ that resides in the upper right abdomen. Its main roles are to produce hormones and secrete digestive enzymes. Inflammation of the pancreas is called pancreatitis, and it may be acute or chronic. The main causes are biliary tract disease and alcoholism. Symptoms suggestive of acute pancreatitis, as outlined by MD Consult, are diffuse abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and fever. Symptoms are worse after eating and when lying on the back. The pain diminishes when sitting forward. Pancreatitis can be a serious condition that should be addressed by a physician.
References
- The American College of Gastroenterology: Abdominal Pain
- "Abdominal Pain, Right Upper Quadrant/Epigastrium"; MD Consult; 2006
- Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Cholecystitis
- Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Chronic Hepatitis
