What Could Be the Cause of Dull Pain in the Upper Right Abdomen?

When you notice a dull ache in your upper right belly, there are several possible reasons. One common cause may involve your liver or gallbladder. For example, inflammation in the liver, a condition such as hepatitis, or problems with bile flow can lead to a steady, dull pain. Gallbladder issues, like mild cholecystitis or the presence of gallstones, can also cause ongoing discomfort. However, some cases show that even when lab tests such as alkaline phosphatase are raised, the problem might not strictly be a liver or gallbladder issue. Sometimes, what seems like a hepatobiliary problem can actually be due to other internal issues, and even imaging studies like CT scans might miss the precise cause. Other possibilities include muscle strain or even referred pain from another area. If the pain continues, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or changes in digestion, it is important to seek a doctor's advice. A healthcare provider can ask more questions, run tests like blood work or ultrasound, and help determine the exact cause to decide the best treatment plan.