Stomach pain in the right side vs on the left side: Why you must know the differences

The stomach is an important organ in the body not only due to its vital role in the digestion of food but also in the way it protects the body by killing off any harmful microorganisms and creates a barrier against pathogens.

The organ also typically sends a warning signal if there's something wrong with the body, which is why stomach pains must not be taken lightly as they could be pointing to a condition much more serious than just indigestion, diarrhea, constipation and more.Additionally, did you know that the side where you experience pain in the stomach can hold different meanings? The left and the right sides of the organ can cause pain at different times due to different reasons. Find out what they mean below!

What are the causes of right-sided stomach pain?

Pain on the right side of the stomach can be due to reasons ranging from mild indigestion to a serious case of appendicitis. The reasons are as follows:

Excess gas

From little babies to elders, every person can experience gas in the stomach due to intestinal trouble.

The pain begins strongly in the form of a cramp, usually after a meal that has caused gas or bloating.

Gallstones

Pain in the right side of the stomach can also signal a gallbladder stone. It typically begins as a cramp in the upper right abdomen and can last for hours. While it might feel like a pain caused by indigestion, it could actually be signalling the presence of gallstones.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis can also cause pain in the right side abdominal area which can begin around the belly button and spread to the lower abdomen and groin after some time due to elevated inflammation.

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a condition in which the liver swells due to reasons such as bacterial or viral infections and more. In such a case, abdominal pain on the right side of the body can be experienced.

Kidney stones and infection

Among people between the ages of 30 and 60, a kidney infection caused by E.coli can lead to a UTI that causes pain. Additionally, this can also be a sign of kidney stones blocking the flow of urine and causing intense pain.

Inguinal hernia

An inguinal hernia is a type of hernia that happens in the abdomen or groin due to a weakness in the abdominal wall which allows the intestinal tissues to protrude into the abdomen and cause pain.

This is more common in children below 5 and older men.

What are the causes of left-sided stomach pain?

Pain in the left side of the stomach can be caused by simple reasons such as acid reflux or serious conditions such as enlarged spleen. The reasons are as follows:

GERD

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or acid reflux can cause pain in the upper abdomen specifically in the epigastric region. However, at times this pain can radiate to the left side of the stomach.

Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is one of the causes of pain in the upper left abdomen due to its proximity to the liver.

This pain may elevate after eating, drinking or consuming high-fat food.

Enlarged spleen

Located on the left side of the abdomen, the spleen is normally the size of a fist. However, conditions like liver disease or infections can cause it to enlarge, leading to splenomegaly. Stomach pain is a common symptom of this condition.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Chronic inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease can also lead to a person experiencing left-sided stomach pain as the intestines occupy much of the abdominal cavity.

Cancer

This is a rare yet potential cause of left-sided stomach pain due to the presence of cancerous cells. Organs affected by cancer in the abdominal cavity can lead to this pain such as pancreatic cancer, colon cancer and ovarian cancer.