Pain under the right rib cage can stem from minor issues to serious health conditions. This article provides general information on potential causes. For persistent or severe pain, consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment, as this content is not medical advice.
Common Organ-Related Causes
The liver can be a source of pain when affected by various conditions. Hepatitis, liver inflammation, may stem from viral infections, excessive alcohol consumption, or autoimmune disorders, leading to a dull ache or tenderness in the right upper quadrant. Fatty liver disease often presents without symptoms but can sometimes cause discomfort as the liver enlarges. Cysts within the liver can cause pain if they grow large enough to press on surrounding structures.
The gallbladder plays a role in digestion by storing and concentrating bile. Gallstones are hardened deposits that can form and may cause sharp, intense pain, especially after consuming fatty meals. If a gallstone blocks the bile duct, it can lead to cholecystitis, resulting in severe and persistent pain, sometimes accompanied by fever.
Problems with the right kidney can sometimes manifest as pain radiating to the right rib cage area. Kidney stones are hard deposits that can cause sharp, excruciating pain as they move through the urinary tract. Pyelonephritis, a kidney infection, often presents with a dull ache or tenderness in the flank region, along with symptoms like fever and painful urination.
The pancreas produces enzymes for digestion and hormones like insulin. Pancreatitis usually causes severe, constant pain in the upper abdomen that can radiate to the back, but in some instances, it may be felt more distinctly on the right side. This pain often worsens after eating, particularly fatty foods.
Conditions affecting the right lung or the diaphragm can also lead to pain under the right rib cage. Pneumonia can cause sharp chest pain that worsens with deep breaths or coughing. Pleurisy results in sharp, stabbing pain that intensifies with breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Diaphragmatic irritation or spasm can also refer pain to this region.
Musculoskeletal and Other Localized Causes
Pain under the right rib cage is not always indicative of an internal organ issue; it can frequently arise from problems with the musculoskeletal system or local nerves. Costochondritis is a common cause of chest wall pain. This condition causes sharp, localized pain that can be reproduced by pressing on the affected area, often worsening with deep breaths or movement.
Trauma to the rib cage can result in rib fractures or bruises. A fractured or bruised rib causes sharp pain that intensifies with movement, coughing, or deep breathing, and the area is usually tender to the touch. The pain from these injuries can persist for several weeks as the bone and surrounding tissues heal.
Muscle strains in the intercostal or abdominal muscles can also lead to discomfort. These strains often occur due to sudden movements, heavy lifting, or repetitive actions, causing a localized ache or sharp pain that is exacerbated by movement, stretching, or coughing. The pain is superficial and can be pinpointed by touch.
Shingles can affect nerves on one side of the body, including those in the rib cage area. Before the characteristic rash appears, individuals may experience burning, tingling, or itching sensations, followed by persistent pain along the path of the affected nerve. The pain can be severe and may linger even after the rash resolves.
Nerve entrapment or neuropathy can also cause localized pain. This can result from compression of a nerve by surrounding tissues or from nerve inflammation. The pain might be described as burning, shooting, or tingling, and it can be accompanied by numbness in the affected area.
Digestive System Contributors
Beyond specific organ conditions, various common digestive system issues can contribute to discomfort or pain under the right rib cage. Trapped gas can cause significant pressure and pain, which may feel sharp, cramping, or dull. This discomfort can shift around the abdomen and sometimes localizes to the upper right quadrant, often improving with the passage of gas.
Indigestion includes discomfort or a burning sensation in the upper abdomen, bloating, and early fullness during meals. While often felt more generally, indigestion discomfort can sometimes be perceived under the right rib cage, particularly after eating.
Acid reflux involves stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, typically causing heartburn. The sensation of burning or discomfort can sometimes radiate upwards or across the upper abdomen, potentially being felt as pain or pressure under the right rib cage, especially when lying down or bending over.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) causes abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits. While IBS pain often varies in location, some individuals may experience cramping or aching sensations in the right upper quadrant. The pain associated with IBS is frequently relieved by a bowel movement.
Duodenal ulcers can also cause pain in this region. The pain from a duodenal ulcer is often described as a gnawing or burning sensation, typically occurring between meals or at night, and it may improve temporarily after eating or taking antacids.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many causes of pain under the right rib cage are not severe, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical evaluation. Seek professional help for severe, sudden, or rapidly worsening pain, as this could indicate an acute medical emergency. Pain accompanied by a high fever, chills, or excessive sweating may suggest an infection or inflammation.
Concerning symptoms include persistent nausea, vomiting, or significant loss of appetite. Jaundice or changes in stool and urine color indicate potential liver or gallbladder issues requiring urgent attention. Unexplained weight loss also warrants medical consultation.
Pain with shortness of breath or chest pain requires immediate medical evaluation for cardiac or respiratory emergencies. If pain follows injury or trauma, seek medical care to assess for fractures or internal damage. Any persistent pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. A doctor can conduct a physical examination and order diagnostic tests to determine the cause and recommend treatment.