Where does appendicitis hurt?
Disease description:
In the past few days, there has been a dull pain on both the left and right sides of the abdomen. I suspect it might be appendicitis. Where does appendicitis typically cause pain?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
The pain associated with appendicitis usually presents with diverse patterns, but primarily concentrates in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. Specifically:
1. Typical pain: About 70%-80% of patients experience migratory right lower quadrant pain, in which the pain originates in the upper abdomen, gradually shifts toward the umbilical area, and eventually localizes in the right lower abdomen.
2. Pain in special locations: Depending on the position of the appendix, pain may occur in the flank (e.g., retrocecal appendicitis), right upper quadrant (e.g., subhepatic appendicitis), or left lower quadrant (in rare cases), and even in the suprapubic region or groin area of the thigh (pelvic appendicitis).
3. Characteristics of the pain: The pain is typically continuous, progressively worsens, and may be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever.
