The area beneath your right ribs holds several important internal structures. Understanding which organs are located here can provide insight into various bodily functions and help recognize when a health concern might arise. This region houses components vital for digestion, detoxification, and waste elimination.
The Liver and Its Role
The liver, the largest solid organ, is predominantly situated under the right rib cage in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. It is largely protected by the lower rib cage. This organ carries out more than 500 functions, making it central to overall health.
One significant function of the liver involves detoxification, filtering and removing harmful substances from the blood, including alcohol and drugs. It also plays a substantial role in metabolism, processing fats, proteins, and carbohydrates into usable forms. The liver produces bile, a fluid that assists in the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. Beyond these roles, the liver stores essential vitamins like A, D, E, K, and B12, along with minerals such as iron and copper. It also synthesizes crucial proteins for blood plasma and helps regulate blood clotting.
Other Nearby Organs and When to Be Concerned
While the liver occupies a prominent position, other organs are also found in the area under the right ribs. Just beneath the liver, the gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that stores and concentrates bile, releasing it into the small intestine as needed for fat digestion. The right kidney, located more towards the back of the abdomen, also sits partially under the lower right ribs. Portions of both the small and large intestines extend into this region, particularly the ascending colon, which travels upwards on the right side of the abdomen.
Conditions affecting any of these organs can manifest as discomfort or pain in the area under the right ribs. Persistent pain, tenderness, or swelling in this region warrants evaluation by a healthcare professional. Additional signs that indicate a need for medical consultation include fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), unexplained weight loss, or severe nausea and vomiting. Changes in bowel habits or blood in stool or urine should also prompt medical attention.