A burning sensation in the side, often described as hot, stinging, or searing, can arise from various sources. While some instances are minor and transient, others may signal underlying conditions requiring medical attention. Understanding the potential reasons behind this sensation is a valuable step toward addressing the discomfort. This article explores causes of side burning, from common issues to more serious medical concerns.
Understanding the Sensation and Its Location
A burning sensation in the side can manifest as sharp, acute pain or a dull, persistent ache. It may be constant or intermittent, and it can sometimes radiate to other areas of the body. Recognizing the precise characteristics of the pain, such as its intensity, duration, and whether it changes with movement or breathing, provides important diagnostic clues.
The specific location offers significant insight into its potential origin. Pain can occur in the upper right or left side, the lower abdomen, the flank (the area between the ribs and hips), or even wrap around from the back to the front. Different body systems, including the digestive, urinary, musculoskeletal, and nervous systems, occupy these regions. Pinpointing the exact area helps healthcare professionals narrow down causes.
Common Causes of Side Burning
Many instances of side burning are temporary or manageable.
Muscle Strain
Muscle strain or soreness frequently causes a burning sensation, especially after unaccustomed physical activity or injury. This discomfort typically arises from overexertion of the abdominal or intercostal muscles, which assist with breathing and trunk movement. The burning feeling can result from microscopic tears in muscle fibers.
Exercise-Induced “Stitch”
Another common, albeit temporary, cause is the “stitch” experienced during exercise, particularly running. This sharp or burning pain, often felt in the side of the abdomen, is thought to be related to irritation of the diaphragm or peritoneum. It usually resolves with rest.
Digestive Issues
Digestive issues like gas and bloating can also induce a burning sensation. As gas accumulates in the intestines, it causes distension, putting pressure on the surrounding tissues and nerves. Similarly, acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause a burning sensation that originates in the chest but sometimes radiates to the side. This occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus.
Nerve and Skin Irritation
Minor nerve irritation can contribute to side burning. This might happen from tight clothing compressing superficial nerves, or from localized inflammation of small nerve branches. Additionally, skin irritation, such as from rashes, friction, or superficial burns, can cause a burning sensation. These causes are often accompanied by visible skin changes like redness or blistering.
Medical Conditions Requiring Attention
More significant medical conditions can also manifest as a burning sensation in the side, requiring professional diagnosis and treatment.
Kidney Issues
Kidney stones or infections, such as pyelonephritis, frequently cause intense burning or sharp pain in the flank, often radiating to the lower abdomen or groin. This pain is typically accompanied by other symptoms like fever, chills, frequent urination, or blood in the urine.
Shingles
Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, produces a distinct burning or tingling sensation, usually on one side of the body. This pain often precedes the appearance of a characteristic blistering rash that follows a dermatomal pattern. The burning can be severe.
Gallstones and Cholecystitis
Gallstones or cholecystitis, an inflammation of the gallbladder, can lead to burning pain in the upper right abdomen. This discomfort often intensifies after consuming fatty meals and may radiate to the right shoulder or back. The burning arises from the gallbladder’s efforts to contract against blockages or from the inflammation itself.
Appendicitis and Diverticulitis
Appendicitis, an inflammation of the appendix, often begins with generalized abdominal pain that later localizes and intensifies in the lower right abdomen. This pain can sometimes feel like a burning sensation and is typically accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and a low-grade fever. Diverticulitis, an inflammation of pouches in the colon, commonly causes lower left abdominal pain, which may be described as burning, along with fever and changes in bowel habits.
Other Conditions
Pleurisy, an inflammation of the pleura, can cause sharp, burning pain in the chest wall or side that worsens with deep breaths, coughing, or sneezing. Pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, usually presents with severe upper abdominal pain that can radiate to the back or side, often described as burning or boring, and is frequently associated with nausea and vomiting. More chronic or severe nerve compression or damage, potentially from spinal problems like a herniated disc, can also lead to persistent burning pain in the side due to direct nerve impingement or irritation.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Certain symptoms accompanying a burning sensation in the side indicate the need for prompt medical evaluation.
Immediate Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention for:
Severe or sudden onset pain, especially if it appears without an obvious cause.
Burning pain accompanied by fever, chills, unexplained nausea, or vomiting.
Blood in the urine or stool alongside side pain.
Burning sensation associated with difficulty breathing, chest pain, or lightheadedness.
Pain following a significant injury, such as a fall or blunt trauma to the side.
When to See a Doctor
Consult a doctor if the burning sensation:
Worsens over time.
Does not improve with rest or home remedies.
Begins to interfere with daily activities.
Occurs concurrently with unexplained weight loss.
It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for persistent, worsening, or concerning symptoms rather than attempting self-diagnosis, as they can accurately evaluate the situation and provide appropriate guidance.