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RUQ Pain

Treatments & Procedures

What Is RUQ Pain?

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RUQ pain refers to pain felt in the Right Upper Quadrant of the abdomen. This is the area just beneath the rib cage on the right-hand side. Several important organs sit in this region, including the gallbladder, liver, bile ducts, part of the pancreas, and the right kidney.​

 

Right Upper Quadrant pain can range from mild discomfort to sudden pain that requires urgent medical advice. Understanding the possible causes helps guide accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.​

RUQ Pain, Symptoms and Diagnosis

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There are several possible causes of RUQ abdominal pain. Some are common and manageable, while others require prompt assessment.

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Common causes include:

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  • Gallbladder problems, including gallstones, cholecystitis or acute cholecystitis

  • Liver problems, such as inflammation or infection

  • Pancreatitis, inflammation of the pancreas

  • Peptic ulcers or stomach ulcer disease

  • Peritonitis, which is inflammation of the lining of the abdomen

 

Symptoms vary depending on the underlying condition but may include:

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  • Abdominal pain beneath the ribs on the right side

  • Pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder, or spreads across the upper abdomen in a band-like pattern

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Fever or signs of infection

  • Pain in pregnancy that requires careful assessment

 

The nature of the pain often provides important clues. Some people experience a steady ache, while others report sharp or sudden pain. Associated symptoms help determine whether urgent investigation is required.

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Diagnosis

 

Diagnosis always begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms and examination by a doctor. Blood tests and imaging, such as ultrasound scanning, are commonly used to assess the gallbladder, bile ducts, liver, pancreas, and kidneys. Some circumstances will require more detailed scans such as a CT or MRI.  Some presentations are best investigated with an Upper GI Endoscopy (OGD).

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Accurate diagnosis is essential, as RUQ pain causes vary widely. Identifying the source of the pain allows targeted treatment and avoids unnecessary intervention.​

What Are the Treatment Options?

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Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause of RUQ pain.

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  • Medical management: Some conditions respond to medicines, pain relief, and monitoring

  • Targeted treatment: Gallstones, cholecystitis, or other structural problems may require specific intervention

  • Surgical treatment: In selected cases, surgery may be recommended if symptoms are recurrent, severe, or linked to complications

 

Pain management is always tailored to the individual, with the focus on treating the root cause rather than masking symptoms alone.

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We take time to explain your diagnosis clearly, discuss treatment options, and ensure you understand the next steps. The priority is safe, appropriate care based on the source of your symptoms.

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Ready to talk things through?

 

If you have questions or would like to discuss your symptoms, we’re here to help. You’re welcome to call 01242 386579, email admin@thehornbygroup.com, or use the contact form to get in touch.

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