Several vital organs can be found in the lower right abdomen including the appendix and the upper part of the colon. In females, the right ovary and the right fallopian tube are also in this area. Problems in any of these organs can cause pain in the region.
When coughing, sneezing, or laughing results in pain in the lower right abdomen, it could mean a number of things. It could be as simple as a pulled stomach muscle (muscle strain), indigestion, or intestinal gas. It may also be a sign of a more serious illness such as appendicitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hernia, or kidney stones.
How Do I Know if My Lower Right Abdominal Pain Is Serious?
Pain in the right lower abdomen could be a sign of a serious illness if the pain does not get better after a few days, becomes extremely bothersome such that it becomes difficult to do daily activities, and is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Black or dark stools
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty urinating
- A red, tender, and painful bulge usually located in the groin
How Do You Rule Out Appendicitis?
When you have appendicitis, it means that your appendix is inflamed and filled with pus. It is considered an emergency that needs immediate treatment because the appendix could burst and cause a serious infection that could be fatal.
The most common symptom of appendicitis is extreme pain, described as the worst pain you will ever experience, that starts at the navel and spreads to the lower right abdomen. The pain is usually abrupt and so severe that it could even wake you up from your sleep. Other symptoms of appendicitis include:
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation or diarrhea
Can Coughing Cause Lower Abdominal Pain?
Excessive and repeated forceful coughing may overuse and strain your abdominal muscles resulting in pain. The abdomen may feel sore and could make coughing, sneezing, and laughing uncomfortable. It could also make trunk movement difficult and feel restricted.
Pain in the abdomen due to muscle strain from excessive coughing can heal quickly and may get better with simple home remedies such as resting and pain medications
. However, if it does not get better in a few days, after resting, or occurs together with other symptoms such as fever, constipation, or diarrhea, it can be an indication of a more serious condition. In this case, it would be best to consult your doctor immediately.
Can You Pull a Muscle in Your Lower Abdomen From Coughing?
The abdominal muscles are bands of strong muscles that start below the ribs and extend to the pelvis. They cover and protect internal organs, and help with urinating, defecating, sneezing, and coughing. They also provide support to the trunk and spine, maintain posture, and keep the internal pressure consistent.
You can pull or strain your abdominal muscles during intense or forceful coughing, sudden movement of the trunk such as violent twisting or turning, overstretching, and excessive exercise.
Dr Aarti is an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery) from Baroda Medical College (The Maharaja Sayajirao University, Baroda). Dr. Aarti has also completed her Masters of Medical Science and Technology from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur.