Every person should at least in general terms know the structure of his body. This is really important, because many people, feeling any discomfort, find it difficult to answer what exactly hurts - since they are not interested in anatomy.
Of course, it is unrealistic to tell about all the organs at once. That is why now it is worth paying attention to only one topic, and to talk about what is under the right hypochondrium in a person.
Liver
This is a vital gland, which is the largest in all vertebrate creatures. This is indeed a very voluminous organ, the mass of which is approximately 1.5 kg.
The liver not only produces bile, which then enters the duodenum through the excretory duct. It performs many functions. Namely:
- Barrier. The liver neutralizes toxic products of protein metabolism, and also neutralizes substancesabsorbed in the intestines.
- Exchange. The liver is involved in all body processes. And it is in it that the carbohydrates that the intestinal mucosa absorbs are converted into glycogen.
- Hormonal. It is in the liver that the destruction of hormones such as estrogen, insulin, thyroxine and aldosterone occurs. Also included in this list are antidiuretic hormone and glucocorticoids.
- Hematopoietic. This function is especially active in the children's body. The liver of every embryo and young child is involved in the production of red blood cells.
In order for the body to function properly throughout life, you need to eat right. For example, follow diet number 5. If dysfunction occurs, then the use of hepatoprotectors is necessary.
Since we are talking about what is under the right hypochondrium of a person, it must be noted that the organ, although it occupies a place under the diaphragm on this side, still a small part of it goes to the left. Interestingly, in infants, the liver occupies almost the entire part of the abdominal cavity. This is 1/20 of the total body weight. For comparison: in an adult, the ratio is 1/50.
Gallbladder
Talking about what organs are on the right under the ribs in front, you need to discuss the gallbladder. It is located directly under the liver, and the bile coming from it accumulates in it, from where it is later released into the small intestine. This happens, by the way, under the influence of hormones of lecystokinin.
The gallbladder is located in the longitudinalright sulcus, on the lower surface of the liver. It has an oval shape and looks like a small egg. Inside - bile, which has a greenish color and a viscous consistency. From the neck of the bladder comes the bile duct. The sphincter of Lutkens leads to it, which regulates the flow of bile.
You should know not only what is under the ribs (right, back, left or front), but also what functions this or that organ performs. Those that are inherent in the gallbladder can be identified in the following list:
- Accumulation and further concentration of bile.
- Direct participation in the process of digestion.
- Protection of the digestive tract from infection.
- Timely entry of bile in the optimal amount into the duodenum 12.
Biologically, the process itself is very interesting. When food enters the stomach, the gallbladder begins to contract. The composition accumulated in it is transported to the duodenum, where the digestive process begins. If the consumed products are characterized by high fat content, then the gallbladder begins to shrink many times more intensely, and the secret, accordingly, is released in greater quantities.
The main component of this fluid are bile acids. There are several types of them, but they are all derivatives of cholanic acid. The composition also contains phospholipids, pigments, as well as trace elements and substances with antimicrobial properties.
The gallbladder is very important. After all, it is its protective function that prevents the occurrence of infectious and inflammatory processes in the organs of the digestive system.
Common bile duct
Since we are talking about what organs are on the right under the ribs in front, we need to talk about the bile duct. Besides, the bubble has already been discussed.
This duct is formed by the confluence of the hepatic and cystic bile. Its length is 5-7 centimeters, and its width is 2-4 cm. At the very beginning of the common bile duct is the Mirizzi sphincter. This is a bundle of circular muscles.
There are four parts in the common bile duct:
- Retropancreatic. Lies between the wall of the descending part of the intestine and the head of the pancreas.
- Retoroduodenal. Located behind the upper part of the duodenum.
- Supraduodenal. Located above the duodenum 12.
- Interpancreatic. Adjacent to the head of the pancreas and runs obliquely to the wall of the duodenum 12.
To every person who is interested in the question: "Which organ is on the right under the ribs?" you should know that although the bile ducts are not often talked about, they are a complex transport route for hepatic secretions. It is they who ensure its outflow.
The common bile duct has a special structure and physiology. And diseases, as many may think, often affect it, and not the bladder or liver. Obstruction of the canal, cholangitis, dyskinesia, cholecystitis, or neoplasms may occur. Fortunately, modern monitoring methods help to identify a particular pathology in time, as well as accurately determine its localization.
Aperture
Continuing the topic concerning the question of what is under the right hypochondrium in humans, we should also pay attention to this unpaired muscle that separates the abdominal and chest cavities. In simple terms, the diaphragm serves to expand the lungs.
Conventionally, its boundary is drawn along the lower edge of the edges. The diaphragm is formed by a whole system of striated muscles.
Her "dome" is directed upwards. Its upper surface forms the bottom of the chest cavity. And the bottom - the top, respectively. It is important to note that, like the dome, the diaphragm has peripheral attachments to the structures that create the chest wall and peritoneum.
The fibers of the muscles that converge from attachments form the central tendon. It is this that forms the so-called crest of the diaphragm. And its peripheral part, in turn, consists of muscle fibers, the beginning of which is taken in the lower chest opening. They also converge into the central vein.
When discussing what is under the right hypochondrium of a person, it is impossible not to mention that the diaphragm is pierced by a number of holes. Thanks to them, the structures between the abdomen and chest are connected. In addition to many small holes, there are three more large ones - venous, esophageal and aortic.
What are the functions of this muscle? There are many of them, and all can be distinguished in the following list:
- Respiratory. It is the movements of the diaphragm in tandem with the pectoral muscles that provide inhalation and exhalation. Accordingly, the process of ventilation of the lungs takes place.
- Cardiovascular. What happens when you inhale? The heart sac expands, as does the lower part of the superior vena cava. Blood is squeezed out of the liver and transported to the right atrium. And by the way, it is fluctuations in intrapleural pressure that contribute to the outflow of blood from the abdominal organs.
- Motor-digestive. The diaphragm has a strong influence on the movement of food through the esophagus. She is, one might say, his pulp.
- Static. This function is to maintain normal relationships between the organs of the abdominal and thoracic cavities. And it depends on the muscle tone that the diaphragm has. If this function is impaired, then the abdominal organs will move to the chest.
The diaphragm is an important abdominal organ. By simultaneously contracting with the abdominal muscles, it reduces intra-abdominal pressure.
Kidney
What is right behind the ribs? Of course, kidney. This is a paired organ, located on both sides. Both kidneys regulate chemical homeostasis through the function of urination. They are located behind the parietal sheet of the peritoneum (this is the lumbar region).
Each kidney is adjacent to the posterior abdominal wall. Interestingly, the right one is slightly lower, and this is anatomically normal. Why? Because from above it directly borders on the liver.
In size, the organ reaches a length of about 11.5-12.5 centimeters, and a width of 5-6 cm. The thickness is 3-4 cm, respectively. The kidney weighs quite a bit - from 120 to 200 g. It is worth mentioning that the right kidney is usually smaller and lighter than the left.
Since we are talking about which organ is located on the right under the ribs, and what features distinguish it, it is necessary to discuss its anatomical specifics. The kidney is covered with a fibrous connective tissue capsule, and makes up its system of accumulation and excretion of urine, as well as the parenchyma.
This organ has a lot of functions - metabolic, excretory, osmoregulatory, endocrine, ionoregulatory, and hematopoietic. The main one, of course, is excretory. It is achieved by the processes of filtration and secretion. How does it happen?
From the capillary glomerulus in the renal corpuscle, the content of blood with plasma is filtered into the Shumlyansky-Bowman capsule. The fluid that is formed as a result of this is the primary urine. Then it is transported through the convoluted tubules of the nephron, where nutrients, electrolytes and water are absorbed back into the blood. Only creatine, urea and acid remain in the primary urine. All this forms the secondary.
This urine is transported from the convoluted tubules to the renal pelvis, and then to the ureter and already to the bladder. Normally, about 1700-2000 liters of blood passes through the kidneys in one day. How much primary urine is formed? About 120-150 liters! And only 1.5-2 liters of secondary remains.
Filtration speed, by the way, depends on several factors. Among them:
- Difference in pressure between the efferent and afferent arteriole.
- Properties of the basement membrane of the renal glomerulus.
- The difference in osmotic pressure betweenlumen of the Bowman's capsule and blood in the capillary network of the glomerulus.
Discussing the functions of the kidneys within the framework of the topic concerning the question: “What is located on the right below the ribs?”, It must be said that this paired organ plays a major role in maintaining the acid-base balance of the plasma. Thanks to him, osmotically active substances are in a stable concentration.
Of course, it is through the kidneys that the body leaves the end products of nitrogen metabolism, as well as toxic and foreign compounds.
This organ helps to get rid of excess substances of organic and artificial origin, it is involved in the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates, helps to form the elements necessary for the body - renin, for example, which is necessary to regulate blood pressure, or erythropoietin, which regulates the rate of formation of red blood cells.
Descending duodenum
Looking at the anatomical diagram of the human body, you can see what is on the right under the ribs in front. And the descending part of the duodenum belongs to the general list.
It starts from the upper bend, which has the shape of an arc. Then it goes down and turns to the left side - thereby forming a lower bend, which in medicine is called flexura duodeni inferior. From there, the lower, horizontal part of the duodenum originates.
The upper half, as mentioned earlier, is located in the upper floor of the abdominal cavity. Inferior, respectively, to the right of the root of the mesentery of the colontransverse colon.
What about the size? The length of the descending part of the duodenum is approximately 9-12 cm. It reaches 4.5-5 cm in diameter.
It is interesting that there is a part of the intestine that is not very mobile, it is called pars descendens. It is most closely connected by vessels and ducts with the head of the pancreas. In some people, the posterior wall contacts the descending part (this is the colon transversum).
But that's not all you need to know about the discussed organ in the right hypochondrium of a person. Behind the duodenum is the upper part of the right kidney, ureter and blood vessels. Behind - the lower segment of the paired organ. Also in close proximity is the transverse colon with the mesentery, the head of the pancreas and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract.
It is difficult to single out the individual functions of the lower part of the duodenum. However, since it is discussed which organs are on the right under the ribs on the side, we can talk about the general tasks performed by it. The functions of the duodenum are highlighted in the following list:
- Bringing the hydrogen index (pH) of incoming food from the stomach to alkaline, which does not irritate the distal small intestine. It is necessary for normal digestion.
- Regulation and initiation of bile secretion and pancreatic enzymes.
- Maintain with stomach feedback. This is manifested in the opening and subsequent closing of his pylorus, and also in the regulation of the acidity of gastric juice.
Ascending colon
Since the topic concerns the question What is the person on the right underribs?”, It is necessary to tell about the ascending colon. What is this organ? This is the name of the initial section of the large intestine (and, for compatibility, the continuation of the blind).
It is not directly involved in digestion. Its function is to absorb water and electrolytes. As a result, the liquid chyme, which is transported to the large intestine from the small intestine, turns into a thicker consistency of feces.
The ascending colon is located in the abdominal cavity, on the right side of it. However, her position cannot be called permanent. If a person takes a vertical position, then the initial part of the intestine goes up.
It is 24 centimeters long. The inner diameter is approximately 7 cm. In the place where the ascending intestine borders on the blind, there is the busi sphincter. This is the name of a circular bundle of muscle fibers, which has the shape of a deep circular groove.
Cecum
Answering the question: “What is on the right under the ribs in front?”, Something should be told about the physiological characteristics of the caecum. What is she? This is the first section of the large intestine, which is located in the right iliac fossa. It is from her that the appendix departs, which will be discussed a little later. And with it, just, the sphincter of Busi is connected by the ascending colon.
As a rule, she is dressed on all sides by the peritoneum, and occupies an intraperitoneal position in the body. However, the caecum often lies mesoperitoneally. This means that it is covered with peritoneum only on three sides.
The structure of the caecum resemblesa thick one. The mucosa has small folds. They look like valves with many muscle fibers. There is also a large crease, but it is single.
The mucosa contains goblet cells and Lieberkün's glands. The caecum is directly involved in the digestive process. Thanks to the mentioned Lieberkühn glands (they are also called crypts), which produce cells for the villi, the intestinal surface is lined with a mucous membrane. It is she who helps the chyme move along the tract.
In simple terms, the main function of the caecum is to absorb the liquid component of the mass, which later becomes feces.
Appendix
Here's another organ located on the right under the ribs in front. More precisely, the appendix is an appendage of the caecum and, of course, is still located much lower than the ribs. It is located in the right iliac region and has a narrow cavity. It opens into the caecum with a hole, which is surrounded by a flap - a small fold of the mucous membrane. Interestingly, with age, this gap in some people overgrows - completely or partially.
What is the function of this appendix? Protective. The accumulations of lymphoid tissue present in it constitute the peripheral sections of the immune system. And in herbivores, for example, the microflora present in the appendix is involved in the process of digesting cellulose.
Answering the question: “What is in a person on the right under the ribs?”, It is necessary to make a reservation that people with remotethe appendix is much more difficult to restore the intestinal microflora if there has been an infection with any infection.
In fact, this process is a repository for bacteria. It does not get what is contained in the intestines, and therefore the appendix is a good breeding ground for beneficial bacteria. He is also an E. coli incubator.
The appendix plays, one might say, a saving role for the preservation of the original microflora of the large intestine. It contains conglomerates of lymphoid follicles, and the organ itself functions as a single system of mucosal immunity.
But, as everyone knows, many people have their appendix removed. Why? The indication for this operation is chronic and acute appendicitis, which manifests itself in inflammation of the appendix.
Why does a person's right hypochondrium hurt?
So, all the organs in this area were previously considered. Now we can discuss another burning issue.
It is impossible to say right away why the right hypochondrium hurts on the side of a person. Because in this area, as it was already possible to understand, several organs are concentrated. And therefore, the reasons can be very different. And even the most qualified and experienced doctor will not be able to diagnose only on the basis of one complaint.
Yes, and sometimes harmless causes actually provoke discomfort. Excessive physical activity, for example, or overeating. However, if the pain is constant, then it is likely that the cause lies in the pathology that has begun to develop. And all the most common conditions are worthconsider separately.
Liver problems
This is the most common reason why people have pain on the right side under the ribs. What is there? That's right, the liver and bile ducts. With deviations in the work of this organ, cramping or paroxysmal pain appears. In fact, its exact nature varies depending on how much this or that ailment progresses. The pain can be either dull or sharp.
Here's what pathology the discomfort tormenting a person can indicate:
- Cirrhosis. Other symptoms are discoloration of the eyes and skin, bloating, vomiting and weakness, and acute digestive disturbances. In addition, the spleen increases in size, the palms begin to turn red, jaundice progresses. Varicose veins of the esophagus may also develop, internal bleeding often occurs, and pressure rises.
- Hepatitis. And whatever it is (medicinal, alcoholic, A, B or C). The disease is accompanied by always aching pain in the right hypochondrium. In parallel, a person is overcome by weakness, the color of feces, urine and skin changes. And impurities of bile and blood appear in the excrement.
- Fatty hepatosis. It develops in people with diabetes and obesity. It is also common in patients with metabolic disorders.
- Liver cancer. The symptoms of this pathology are similar to the manifestations of cirrhosis. In addition to pain in the right hypochondrium, a bitter taste appears in the mouth, the color of the skin and eyes changes, and the temperature increases. Often a person is tormentedconvulsions, muscles and limbs may atrophy. The functionality of the gastrointestinal tract is also disrupted, internal bleeding occurs.
- Echinococcosis. The reason for its development is helminthic invasion. The main symptom is unbearable heaviness and severe pain in the right hypochondrium. Also, a person is faced with digestive disorders, suffers from fever and chronic lethargy.
When discussing the pathology of the organs located on the right under the ribs, it is important to make a reservation that many conditions, if started, are fraught with a fatal outcome. That is why, if the slightest discomfort appears, it is necessary to consult a doctor and immediately begin treatment.
Problems with the digestive system
Earlier it was said that under the right hypochondrium in a person is, and it is logical to assume that the cause of pain may be any pathology of the gastrointestinal tract. And if this is true, then in addition to this symptom, a person is also worried about diarrhea, bloating, “sour” belching, as well as nausea, heartburn and a taste of metal in the mouth.
And here are the problems in such cases:
- Pancreatitis. It manifests itself in inflammation that affects the pancreas. A person is worried about vomiting and a feeling of fullness in the stomach, there is flatulence and active "rumbling".
- Gastritis. With this disease, pain from the hypochondrium gives to the lower back. Additional symptoms are abdominal swelling and bad breath.
- Cholecystitis. With inflammation of the gallbladder, pain in the hypochondrium is dull aching in nature. It is often accompanied by tingling,localized in the abdominal region.
- Appendicitis. Symptoms are characteristic - a sharp decline in strength, nausea with severe vomiting, high fever and unbearable pain in the right hypochondrium. In a person, the organs in this state seem to acquire increased sensitivity - the sensations are so pronounced. Not surprisingly, with appendicitis, they are immediately hospitalized.
- Pathologies of the colon. These include ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, intestinal infections and disturbed microflora, as well as diverticulosis and irritation.
- Intestinal perforation. This condition is characterized by the presence of a through hole in the large intestine through which all food enters the abdominal cavity.
There is another reason worth noting when discussing the features of human anatomy. In the right hypochondrium, pain often occurs after physical exertion. If they appear stably, then the reason lies in biliary dyskinesia. Usually this pathology is eliminated on its own after some time.
Problems with the genitourinary system
Earlier, in the story about where the right hypochondrium is in a person and what organs are located in it, the kidneys were mentioned. They are part of the urinary system. And if it is affected by any pathology, then the person begins to be disturbed by pain on the right, in the area of \u200b\u200bthe ribs, as well as burning in the groin, shortness of breath, bitterness and dry mouth.
In addition, signs of intoxication, severe fatigue, fever and false urge to urinate make themselves felt. Also, a person is worried about lumbar pain, sometimesswollen lower limbs. If treatment is not started on time, an abscess may develop.
Pathologies accompanied by such symptoms are listed as follows:
- Necrosis of the renal papillae. Often they are accompanied by infectious diseases and diabetes mellitus. Blood may appear in the urine, in the worst cases, septic shock occurs.
- Upper paranephritis. In other words, inflammation of the renal fatty tissue. The patient is worried about the loss of strength, shortness of breath, discomfort in the abdominal region and aches.
- Pyelonephritis. Accompanied by a sharp rise in temperature up to 40 ° C, nausea, vomiting, severe weakness, loss of appetite, sweating and dull pain in the hypochondrium. Possible tingling in the lower back.
- Kidney tumor. The signs are the same as those of pyelonephritis.
- Renal failure. The pain is localized in the ribs and lower back, the person suffers from increased fatigue, swelling of the lower extremities and dysuric disorders. A rash appears on the skin, a metallic taste in the mouth.
Also, pain in the hypochondrium in men may indicate the development of prostatitis. Also, discomfort appears in the lower back, potency decreases, and the patient himself begins to notice premature ejaculation. Other symptoms include weakness, aches, fever and constipation.
Conclusion
Above, it was described in detail what is under the right hypochondrium in humans and what functions these organs perform.
In conclusion, I would like toto say that there are many more causes of pain in this area. And let the answers to the question: “What is on the right side under the ribs?” not left, you still need to know - not always the pain in this area is caused by the organ located in it.
Discomfort can provoke a disease of the cardiovascular system, shingles, pregnancy, fracture, diaphragmatitis, pneumonia and much more. That is why it is necessary not to try to identify yourself, but to make an appointment with a doctor.
Only a specialist, having carried out all the indicated diagnostic measures, can determine the factor that provoked the pain, and then prescribe an effective, competent treatment suitable for a particular patient.
