Several factors can contribute to nerve pain specifically on the right side of the abdomen. Here are some potential causes, along with supporting resources:
Nerve compression:
- Right subcostal nerve entrapment: This occurs when the nerve supplying the right side of the upper abdomen gets compressed, leading to pain in that area.
- Ilioinguinal nerve entrapment: This nerve supplies the lower abdomen and groin. Its compression can cause pain in the right lower abdomen, groin, and inner thigh.
- Scar tissue from surgery: If you’ve had surgery on your right side, scar tissue can trap and irritate nerves, causing localized pain.
Nerve damage:
- Shingles: This viral infection affects nerves and can cause pain in the area where the rash appears, commonly on the right side of the torso.
- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, located in the lower right abdomen, can irritate nearby nerves and cause pain in that area.
- Right rib fractures: Fractured or bruised ribs on the right side can irritate the nerves supplying the area, leading to localized pain.
Organ-related issues:
- Liver problems: Conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis can irritate the liver capsule, which has pain receptors and can cause right upper abdominal pain.
- Gallstones: These stones can block the bile ducts, causing inflammation and pain in the upper right abdomen.
- Kidney problems: Kidney stones or infections can irritate the right kidney and ureter, leading to pain on that side.
Other possible causes:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): This condition can affect the digestive tract, including the small intestine, which lies in the right lower abdomen. Inflammation can cause pain in that area.
- Endometriosis: This condition involves tissue similar to the uterine lining growing outside the uterus, sometimes affecting the right side of the pelvic region and causing pain.
- Muscle spasms: Tightness or spasms in the right abdominal muscles can irritate nerves and cause pain.
Resources:
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/about-niddk/research-areas/digestive-diseases
- American Gastroenterological Association: https://gastro.org/
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptom-checker/abdominal-pain-in-adults-adult/related-factors/itt-20009075
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/
- American Academy of Neurology: https://www.aan.com/
It’s important to note that this information should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you experience right-sided abdominal nerve pain, consult your doctor for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
