What could cause pain in the lower right abdomen when I cough?

When you cough, your abdominal muscles flex to help you push the air out, and sometimes this extra pressure can strain or injure the muscles, especially in the lower part of your belly. A muscle injury will be aggravated by coughing and can sometimes feel worse when you move. Although muscle strain is common and usually harmless, it is important to monitor for bruising in the area or severe pain as these can indicate a more serious injury. In some cases, coughing may also worsen pain that starts from other causes from inside the abdomen. But if the pain is limited to times you are coughing, it is most likely due to a strain of your abdominal wall. If the pain continues or worsens, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be causing your discomfort and determine whether you need to seek medical care.