Can Gastritis Cause Pain in the Upper Right Abdomen?

Many people experience gastrointestinal issues that can manifest in discomfort throughout the abdomen. However, when it comes to gastritis, the typical assumption is that pain is centered around the upper middle part of the stomach. However, some individuals report feeling this pain on the upper right side, beneath the ribs. This raises a key question: can gastritis really cause pain in the upper right abdomen, or might it signal another underlying condition?

Understanding Gastritis and Its Common Symptoms

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining, often caused by factors like bacterial infections, excessive use of NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), alcohol, or chronic stress. This condition typically results in symptoms such as a burning sensation in the stomach, nausea, and bloating. However, depending on the severity and underlying cause, some people experience pain in less expected areas, including the right upper side of the abdomen.

While pain from gastritis is generally localized to the upper central abdomen, factors like gas buildup and inflammation may lead to discomfort in the surrounding regions as well, including areas under the ribs. Several commenters online have shared their personal experiences of feeling gastritis-related pain in the upper right side of their abdomen.

Real-Life Experiences with Upper Right Abdominal Pain from Gastritis

In response to a post asking if anyone had experienced upper right abdominal pain with gastritis, users shared various insights. One commenter, Tiny-Arugula1206, stated, “Yes, it absolutely can... The pain can be anywhere because it’s gas and inflammation.” They went on to suggest remedies such as chamomile tea with honey and over-the-counter options like Pepcid and Mylanta to alleviate symptoms.

Another commenter, WonderfulDatabase635, also shared their story, describing a persistent pain in the upper right abdomen that only subsided when they resumed their prescribed medication, Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) commonly used to reduce stomach acid. This account aligns with the idea that pain on the right side, though uncommon for gastritis, can indeed occur and be managed by treating the underlying gastric inflammation.

 Distinguishing Between Gastritis and Other Conditions

Upper right abdominal pain may also stem from other health issues, often involving nearby organs such as the gallbladder. For instance, Freqzd mentioned experiencing this type of pain for several months and initially suspected antral gastritis. However, after an endoscopy, which revealed only mild gastritis, and imaging tests that ruled out gallbladder involvement, the individual considered alternative causes like costochondritis or trapped gas. This case underscores the importance of not solely attributing right-sided pain to gastritis without proper diagnostic imaging.

Similarly, another user, Any_School_5629, initially experienced episodic pain in the same area, especially after meals. This individual eventually underwent gallbladder removal, which resolved their symptoms. These accounts indicate that gallbladder issues often present with upper right abdominal pain and may mimic or coexist with gastritis symptoms. Therefore, persistent pain should prompt further examination, as it could result from a gallbladder issue rather than gastritis alone.

What Health Professionals Say About Right-Sided Abdominal Pain

Healthcare providers often emphasize that right-sided abdominal pain could have various causes, with the gallbladder being a common suspect. One commenter, Shamalam1, identified themselves as a doctor and suggested that pain in this area could indeed be a result of many conditions, including gas. They advised monitoring additional symptoms such as stool changes, reflux, fatigue, and reduced overall energy levels. This advice reinforces the idea that while gastritis can contribute to upper right abdominal pain, patients should seek medical attention if the discomfort persists or impacts daily life.

The presence of gallbladder issues, liver concerns, or even costochondritis could contribute to this type of pain, making it essential to rule out these possibilities. A physical examination, imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scans, and possibly endoscopy can help clarify the pain’s origin and determine the best course of action.

Possible Remedies and Recommendations

For individuals experiencing upper right abdominal pain potentially related to gastritis, a few lifestyle changes and remedies may offer relief. Here are some recommendations based on experiences shared online:

1. Dietary Adjustments: Avoid foods that exacerbate gastritis symptoms, such as acidic, spicy, or fried foods, as these may worsen inflammation and pain. Opt for soothing options like chamomile tea, ginger, or peppermint to alleviate gas and bloating.

2. Medication: Over-the-counter medications, including antacids like Mylanta and H2 blockers like Pepcid, may help reduce stomach acid and alleviate symptoms. Prescription medications like PPIs, as mentioned by WonderfulDatabase635, can also be highly effective when taken consistently.

3. Stress Reduction: Chronic stress can exacerbate gastritis symptoms, making stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise valuable tools for those dealing with this condition.

4. Medical Consultation: If symptoms persist, consulting a healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment is essential. Persistent or severe pain, especially in the upper right abdomen, may necessitate tests to rule out other conditions such as gallbladder issues, liver concerns, or more complex gastrointestinal disorders.

5. Imaging and Testing: Diagnostic tests, including endoscopy, HIDA scans, or ultrasound, may help clarify the exact cause of upper right abdominal pain. These tests can be invaluable for distinguishing gastritis-related pain from that of gallbladder disease, as illustrated by the shared experiences.

In conclusion, while upper right abdominal pain is not a typical symptom of gastritis, it is possible under certain circumstances. Inflammation and gas buildup from gastritis may cause discomfort in adjacent areas, including the upper right abdomen. However, pain in this area should be evaluated carefully, as it can also indicate other conditions, especially those related to the gallbladder.

As these real-life accounts show, monitoring other symptoms and seeking medical advice if pain persists is essential. Making dietary and lifestyle adjustments, alongside consulting with healthcare providers, can provide the most effective path toward relief. For anyone experiencing this type of pain, understanding the potential sources and working with a healthcare professional to identify the root cause is key to finding both relief and reassurance.