13+ Causes of Pain in Lower Abdomen When Coughing (2024)

Pain in the lower abdomen when coughing can be a discomforting and sometimes alarming symptom. While it may often be benign, it can also signal underlying conditions that require medical attention.

Understanding the various causes of this pain is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

This article explores the potential causes of lower abdominal pain during coughing, ranging from minor musculoskeletal issues to more serious conditions affecting the organs in the abdominal cavity.

Why Does My Lower Abdomen Hurt When I Cough?

Lower abdominal pain when coughing is often due to increased abdominal pressure, which can strain muscles and tissues. Common causes include muscle strain, hernias, and infections. Persistent pain warrants a visit to a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions and ensure proper treatment.

Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain When Coughing

1. Hernia
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
3. Muscle Strain
4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
5. Appendicitis
6. Diverticulitis
7. Kidney Stones
8. Endometriosis
9. Pancreatitis
10. Ovarian Cysts
11. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
12. Interstitial Cystitis
13. Pregnancy Complications

Watch this video or keep reading to learn more about the most common causes of lower abdominal pain while coughing.

Hernia

A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall.

In cases of a hernia in the abdominal area, a noticeable bulge may appear and can cause pain or discomfort when coughing, bending over, or lifting heavy objects.

The most common types are inguinal (inner groin), femoral (outer groin), umbilical (navel), and hiatal (upper stomach).

Hernias often require medical evaluation because they typically do not improve on their own and may require surgery to prevent complications.

Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system, including kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra.

Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than men. Symptoms can include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, passing frequent, small amounts of urine, and pain in the lower abdomen.

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics, and it’s crucial to treat the infection early to prevent it from spreading to the kidneys.

Muscle Strain

Muscle strain in the abdomen can occur due to sudden movements, overexertion, improper lifting, or excessive physical activity. This condition involves the partial or complete tearing of muscle fibers and the associated tissues.

Symptoms of an abdominal muscle strain can include pain during movement, swelling, bruising, and muscle weakness.

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation are common non-surgical treatments. Severe strains may require medical attention and a longer period of rest to heal properly.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs. It usually occurs when sexually transmitted bacteria spread from the vagina to the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.

Common symptoms include lower abdominal pain, fever, unusual vaginal discharge with a bad odor, painful intercourse, painful urination, and irregular menstrual bleeding.

PID can cause serious complications, including infertility, if not treated promptly. Treatment often involves a course of antibiotics to clear the infection.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch that extends from the large intestine. The condition is a medical emergency, and symptoms can quickly worsen if not treated.

Typical symptoms include sharp pain in the lower right abdomen, which may initially begin near the navel and then move. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and fever.

The standard treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix to prevent rupture, which can lead to more severe complications.

Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when small, bulging pouches (diverticula) that develop in the digestive tract become inflamed or infected. This condition is more common in older adults.

Symptoms include pain in the lower left side of the abdomen, fever, nausea, and a marked change in bowel habits.

Mild cases of diverticulitis can be treated with rest, diet changes, and antibiotics. Severe or recurrent cases may require more significant medical interventions, such as surgery.

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can affect any part of the urinary tract — from the kidneys to the bladder.

Often, stones form when the urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. Passing kidney stones can be extremely painful, but the stones usually cause no permanent damage if they are recognized in a timely manner.

Symptoms include severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs, pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin, and pain during urination.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus — the endometrium — grows outside the uterus. It most commonly involves the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining the pelvis.

The primary symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain, often associated with menstrual periods.

Although many experience cramping during their menstrual period, those with endometriosis typically describe menstrual pain that’s far worse than usual. Treatment options include pain medications, hormonal therapies, and surgery.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and hormones. Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation that lasts for a short time, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-standing inflammation that can last for years.

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include upper abdominal pain that radiates into the back, swollen and tender abdomen, nausea, and vomiting.

Chronic pancreatitis symptoms include upper abdominal pain and weight loss. Treatments range from dietary changes and enzymes to hospitalization for more severe cases.

Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of an ovary. While many women will develop at least one cyst during their lifetime, most are painless, cause no symptoms, and are harmless.

However, some cysts can cause dull or sharp pain in the abdomen during various activities, including coughing. Symptoms can also include bloating, swelling, and painful bowel movements.

Most cysts disappear without treatment, but larger cysts might require surgical intervention if they cause discomfort or persist.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the large intestine. It commonly causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea, constipation, or both.

IBS is a chronic condition that needs to be managed long-term. The exact cause of IBS isn’t known, and it can be triggered by foods, stress, and other environmental factors.

Treatment includes dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and prescribed medications to manage pain and symptom flare-ups.

Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.

The condition is a part of a spectrum of diseases known as bladder pain syndrome (BPS). Symptoms include pain during urination, frequent urination, and pain during sexual intercourse.

Treatment options vary, including dietary modifications, physical therapy, medications, and procedures to treat the symptoms and improve quality of life.

Pregnancy Complications

Pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy can be a sign of various complications, which can range from mild to severe. Common issues include ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube, causing sharp pains.

Miscarriage may also present with lower abdominal pain along with bleeding. Preterm labor is another serious complication characterized by consistent abdominal pain, which might resemble contractions, occurring before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Additionally, round ligament pain is a common benign cause of discomfort during pregnancy, typically arising from the stretching of ligaments supporting the uterus.

It’s crucial for any pregnant woman experiencing unusual abdominal pain to seek medical evaluation to determine the cause and receive appropriate care.

Home Remedies for Lower Abdominal Pain and Coughing

When dealing with lower abdominal pain accompanied by coughing, home remedies can offer relief and comfort.

Here are some helpful options:

• Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the lower abdomen can help relax muscles and alleviate pain caused by muscle strains or cramps.
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially warm liquids, can soothe the throat from coughing and help flush out any infections that might be contributing to the pain.
• Rest: Proper rest can aid recovery, especially if the pain and coughing are caused by an infection or strain.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage.
• Tea with Honey: Warm tea with honey can soothe the throat, reduce coughing, and the warmth can provide some comfort to the abdomen.
• Dietary Adjustments: Avoiding spicy, acidic, or gas-producing foods can prevent further irritation of the abdomen and reduce symptoms of conditions like IBS or acid reflux.
• Ginger Tea: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can help in reducing nausea and abdominal discomfort. Drinking ginger tea may soothe both the stomach and the throat.
• Peppermint: Peppermint tea or lozenges can relax the gastrointestinal tract and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, as well as soothe the throat.
• Breathing Exercises: Gentle breathing exercises can help manage the discomfort from coughing by relaxing the abdominal muscles and reducing the frequency of cough spasms.
• Light Exercise: Gentle activities like walking or stretching can stimulate digestion and reduce the tension in abdominal muscles, potentially easing the pain.

Note: If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure proper treatment and to rule out more serious conditions.

FAQs About Lower Abdomen Pain When Coughing

Why Do I Have Pain in My Lower Abdomen When I Walk or Cough?

Pain in the lower abdomen when walking or coughing can be caused by various factors, including muscle strains, hernias, or inflammation of internal organs.

The physical movement or pressure from coughing can exacerbate existing conditions, causing discomfort.

Should I Be Worried if My Stomach Hurts When I Cough?

While occasional stomach pain during coughing isn’t typically a sign of a serious condition, persistent or severe pain could indicate an underlying issue such as a hernia, urinary tract infection, or even appendicitis.

Consulting a doctor is advisable if the pain persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.

How Do You Relax Your Stomach Muscles When Coughing?

To relax your stomach muscles when coughing, try taking slow, deep breaths through your nose and exhaling gently through your mouth.

Positioning yourself comfortably, either sitting up straight or lying down with support under your knees, can also help reduce tension in your abdominal muscles.

Can I Tear a Stomach Muscle from Coughing?

Yes, it is possible to tear a stomach muscle from excessive coughing, especially if the coughing is vigorous and the abdominal muscles are not very strong.

This is more likely to occur in situations where there is repetitive coughing over an extended period, leading to strain and potential muscle tears.

Can Coughing Pull a Pelvic Muscle?

Yes, coughing can pull a pelvic muscle, particularly if the cough is severe and repetitive. This can occur due to the sudden contraction of pelvic muscles in an attempt to stabilize the core and lower body, leading to strain or even minor injuries.

Why Do My Ovaries Hurt When I Cough?

Ovarian pain when coughing can occur if there is an underlying condition such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis. The increase in abdominal pressure from coughing can exacerbate the pain from these conditions.

If the pain is recurrent or severe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Do Abdominal Strains Hurt When You Cough?

Yes, abdominal strains can hurt when you cough. Coughing can cause the abdominal muscles to contract forcefully, which can be painful if the muscles are strained or injured.

This pain typically feels sharp and may be localized to the area of the strain.

Can Stomach Pain During Coughing Affect Sleep?

Stomach pain during coughing can indeed affect sleep. The discomfort and pain can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position and may repeatedly awaken someone if coughing continues throughout the night.

Managing the cough and using pain relief strategies can help improve sleep quality.

Why Does My Lower Abdomen Hurt When I Sneeze?

Pain in the lower abdomen when sneezing can be due to the sudden contraction of abdominal muscles that occurs during a sneeze.

This sudden movement can exacerbate existing conditions, such as hernias or muscle strains, or highlight sensitivities like ovarian cysts or other pelvic issues.

What Causes Lower Abdominal Pain in Females When Coughing?

Lower abdominal pain in females when coughing can be caused by a variety of issues, including urinary tract infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or ovarian cysts.

The increased abdominal pressure from coughing can intensify pain from these conditions.

What is a Rare Cause of Cough-Induced Abdominal Pain?

A rare cause of cough-induced abdominal pain is a rectus sheath hematoma, which is a collection of blood in the sheath of the abdominal muscles, often caused by a tear due to forceful coughing.

This condition is rare but more common in individuals on anticoagulation therapy or with coagulopathy.

Can a Gallstone Cause Lower Abdominal Pain?

Yes, a gallstone can cause lower abdominal pain, although it more commonly causes pain in the upper right abdomen or the center of the abdomen under the ribcage.

This pain, known as biliary colic, occurs when gallstones block the bile ducts, leading to an intense and steady pain that can last from a few minutes to several hours.

In some cases, the pain can radiate to the lower abdomen, back, or even the right shoulder. If you experience such symptoms, especially with fever or jaundice, it is important to seek medical attention as it could indicate a more serious condition like cholecystitis or pancreatitis.

When to See a Doctor for Lower Abdomen Pain While Coughing?

You should see a doctor for lower abdomen pain while coughing if the pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, vomiting, bloody urine, or if it significantly interferes with your daily activities.

These could be signs of a more serious underlying condition requiring medical evaluation and treatment.

Final Thoughts

Abdominal or stomach pain when coughing can arise from a range of factors, spanning from benign to severe. Prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional is imperative to rule out serious conditions and provide appropriate treatment.

Whether it’s a simple muscle strain or a symptom of a more complex medical issue, addressing the underlying cause is essential for alleviating discomfort and ensuring overall well-being.