Appendicitis: Which area experiences pain?

Jun 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In most cases of acute appendicitis, the initial pain may appear in the epigastric or periumbilical region, presenting as intermittent dull pain. Several hours later, the pain shifts and localizes in the right lower quadrant, with significant tenderness upon palpation. The pain intensifies momentarily when pressure is released, due to inflammation of the appendix stimulating the peritoneum. In some patients, the pain starts directly in the right lower quadrant, accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever.

Appendicitis mainly presents as pain in the lower right abdomen, specifically at the junction of the outer and middle third of the line connecting the navel and the right anterior superior iliac spine. If any abnormalities are noticed, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

During most acute appendicitis episodes, the initial pain may appear in the middle upper abdomen or around the navel, presenting as intermittent dull pain. Several hours later, the pain shifts and localizes in the lower right abdomen. Pressing on this area causes significant pain, which intensifies momentarily when pressure is released. This phenomenon occurs due to the inflamed appendix irritating the peritoneum. Some patients experience pain initially in the lower right abdomen, accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever. As the inflammation worsens, the nature of the pain may change from dull aching to persistent distending pain or severe pain.

In rare cases, the pain location may vary depending on specific conditions. For example, if the appendix is abnormally positioned, the pain location may change correspondingly. When the appendix is high-lying, the pain may appear in the upper right abdomen, resembling cholecystitis. In cases of pelvic-positioned appendicitis, there may be a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the lower abdomen or near the rectum, accompanied by increased frequency of bowel movements.

When abdominal pain occurs, do not attempt self-diagnosis or misuse analgesics. Especially when the pain shifts locations or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever and vomiting, immediate medical attention is necessary. Diagnosis should be made through physical examination by a physician, complete blood count, ultrasound, and other relevant investigations.