This article is about causes of pain under left rib cage. Pain under left cage can be really annoying and irritating. Many people panic when they suffer with the pain as there can be a number of reasons for pain under rib cage. Injured rib cage is one of the most common causes of pain under left rib cage. Apart from that, there are several reasons that can lead to pain under rib cage. Pain under rib cage should never be avoid as you don’t know what could be the reason. There are possibilities of different problems. Pain under rib cage can vary from person to person. Some feel pain in the organs that is protected by the rib cage. In this case, there are higher possibilities of injury to the organ. But, in many cases, you need not worry as there are no serious issues. In this article, we are going to discuss different causes of pain under rib cage. But, if you feel the pain is unbearable then you should consult your doctor as soon as possible.
Causes of Pain Under Left Rib Cage.
Contents
As said above, there can be a variety of causes of pain under left rib cage. We are going to discuss some of the possible causes of pain under left rib cage.
1.) Gas in the Colon
This is one of the most common causes of pain under rib cage. When gets get stuck in the colon then it hurts. There can be different reasons for gas formation in the intestine. In this case, you feel that the pain is rising from the upper portion of the left of your abdomen. The pain goes towards left side of your rib cage. The main reason for the formation gas in the intestine is indigestion. When there is too much food in the stomach, the system slows down and it generates difficulties in digesting food. Thus, the gases get trapped in the colon and it starts to hurt. Pneumothorax is the condition that is similar to gas. In this case, air gets trapped between ribs and lungs.
To get rid of gas, you can read the article on our website how to relieve gas?
2.) Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is also among common causes of pain under left rib cage. Acid reflux is the result of consuming too much acidic food. The condition can also be a result of acidic drinks. Due to the consumption of these foods and drinks, there is an acid build up in the body. This acid build leads to the problem of acid reflux and heartburn. Acid reflux is marked by pain in thorax. A lot of time, people confuse it with some heart problem.
To get rid of acid reflux, you can read the related articles on our website home remedies for acid reflux.
3.) Rib Damage
If the pain is too much or it is almost unbearable, there are chances that you have broken ribs. Not only it causes extreme pain in the rib cause but it also effects the movements of a person. This will interrupt the regular movement of the person. The person will not be able to move around as there will be too much discomfort and pain. Damage to the rib cage is possible only by some external trauma like falling, beaten, accident etc. If the rib cage is damaged and broken then it is easily marked by bruises and other visible signs.
4.) Respiratory Problems
Respiratory problem is also among the most common causes of pain under left rib cage. Some lung disorders can affect the rib cage badly by making inflamed. Respiratory problems can affect the area really badly. Thus pain under left rib cage can be a symptom of some respiratory problems. The pain can be due to respiratory infections, pleurisy, pleural effusion, pneumonia and tuberculosis. In this condition, the pain is felt right under the left rib cage. Cough can worsen the case. So, if you have such symptoms and your cough is making it worse then you should visit your doctor for sure.
5.) Stomach Ulcer
Stomach ulcer can also be a reason for pain under left rib cage. Stomach ulcers are sore that line the inner lining of the small intestine. Stomach ulcers occur when the mucus layer in the intestine is reduced. This layer protects intestine from digestive juices. The condition is marked by the sharp pain in the stomach. Pain caused due to stomach ulcer can also lead to pain in rib cages and shoulder blades. In this condition, you should consult your doctor for sure.
6.) Kidney Stone
Kidney stone is also among the major causes of pain under left rib cage. A person can have kidney stones multiple times. The common symptom of kidney stone is sharp pain under left rib cage. The pain is characterized by its sharpness, which starts from back and then come to front. The pain might also become unbearable. In this case, you should see your doctor immediately. The condition requires proper diagnosis and treatment. You can also read the related article on our website Home remedies to treat kidney stones naturally.
7.) Irritation on Spleen
This is another reason for pain under the left rib cage. There might be some chances that your spleen is ruptured and that cause pain under your left rib cage. Spleen is located on the upper part of the abdomen. Spleen performs the function of regulating and filtering the blood cells. You can characterize the condition easily as the pain in rib cage is followed by the pain in the back and the shoulders. This condition needs doctor assistance. If you are noticing such type of pain then there are chances that your spleen is damaged and it’s to see the doctor.
8.) Costochondritis
Costochondritis is the condition that leads to the inflammation of cartilage, connecting the breastbone. The pain is also known as chest wall pain, costosternal chondrodynua or costosternal syndrome. The pain is sometimes accompanied by swelling. The pain is often mistaken with that of a heart attack. But, the real pain is under the rib. Usually, in this condition, people suffer with breathing problems. Slightest movement in the condition can cause great discomfort.
9.) Pancreatitis
This is the condition which is caused due to the inflammation of the pancreas. This is also of the common causes of pain under left rib cage. People suffering with the condition can experience pain from medium to severe. The pain can also move to back. The condition gets worsen by eating or drinking something. Other symptoms of the problem include fever, vomiting and nausea.
10.) Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome can also lead to pain under the left rib cage. The condition is marked by the disturbed bowl movement that can lead to constipation or diarrhea. It is also marked by cramps in the intestine, bloating and cramps.
11.) Pleurisy Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This can be one of the main reasons behind pain under left rib cage. This is basically caused when the layer of tissue that covers the lungs fills with fluid and gets inflamed. Due to this pressure is put on the lungs which results in pain on the side of the chest.Pleurisy is a mild condition that can be resolved with certain antibiotics or on its own. It usually lasts from few days to a few weeks. Coughing, sneezing or deeply breathing can increase or aggravate pain under left rib cage.
12.) Fibromyalgia Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This is another chronic condition that can be a reason for pain under left rib cage. American college of Rheumatology has estimated that only 2 to 4% of people are affected with this problem out of which 90% are women. The pain caused in this condition is mostly felt in rib cage, although it can affect any other body part. There are many researches that suggest that pain in rib cage is the common condition that leads people to hospital suffering from fibromyalgia. So, the next time you feel pain it is better you consults a doctor.
13.) Pulmonary Embolism Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This is one of the possible reasons behind pain under left rib cage. In this condition, the artery that goes to lungs gets blocked. The blockage is usually caused because of the blood clot that reaches through one of the legs. It is a serious condition and should not be ignored as the reduced amount of oxygen can damage your lungs and other organs. Here are some symptoms of pulmonary embolism. So, check out and consult your doctor if you experience any of them.
- Sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Anxiety
- Irregular heartbeat
- Coughing
- Lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
14.) Angina Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This is another possible reason for pain under left rib cage. Angina is a heart related condition that is caused due to blocked arteries. It is a common condition in people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and due to overweight. Poor circulation of blood is also the cause of angina. According to American Heart Association angina chest pain resembles like a heart attack or it can also resemble as heartburn. When angina is unstable it can lead to cardiac arrest and cause sudden pain in the chest. The pain can also be caused even when you are resting. To prevent the problem of angina, it is necessary that you take good care of your heart. Some lifestyle changes like lowering cholesterol, reducing stress and some dietary changes can prevent symptoms of angina.
15.) Pericarditis Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This can be another important reason behind pain under left rib cage. Our heart is protected by a sac called pericardium and when it gets inflamed it results in sharp chest pain. It can cause a sharp piercing pain under the left rib cage. It can be difficult to trace the exact cause of pericarditis. It could be because of viral infection, trauma to heart or ribcage or rheumatoid arthritis. This uncomfortable stabbing pain under the left rib cage can be accompanied by abdominal or leg swelling, heart palpitations, weakness and low grade fever.
16.) Heartburn Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This is another possible reason behind pain under left rib cage. Heartburn can cause pain under the rib cage which can feel like a heart attack. Heartburn is a condition that is caused when the digestive acid leaks back the esophagus. In heartburn a burning and painful sensation is caused in the upper abdomen and chest. Heartburn can also be a symptom of heart attack.
17.) Heart Attack Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This can be one of the important reasons behind pain under left rib cage. Heart attack is caused is when lack of oxygen blood cells gets to the heart. This is caused when coronary arteries are blocked. The blockage cause severe chest discomfort and it feels like someone is squeezing your chest. Cardiac pain under left rib cage is a sign of impending heart attack. Here are some symptoms of heart attack.
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling of fullness in chest
- Dizziness, vomiting or cold sweats
- Uncomfortable sensation in neck, back and arms
- To reduce the risk of heart attack, stop smoking, avoid alcohol and opt for a healthier lifestyle.
18.) Viral Hepatitis Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This type of infection has five varieties; each of them is very serious. Viral hepatitis can be a strong reason for the pain under left rib cage. Apart from pain under left rib cage, other symptoms are yellow eyes and skin and dark colored urine. Viral hepatitis spreads easily so it is necessary you stay away from people.
19.) Anaphylaxis Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This can be another important reason cause pain under left rib cage. This life threatnening allergic reaction happens when you eat a certain food or take a certain substance you are allergic to. Apart from pain under left rib cage, other symptoms include faster heart rate, facial inflammation, rashes on the face etc. It is better to seek medical attention in this situation. So, consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms to prevent anything serious.
20.) Placental Abruption Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This is another possible reason that cause pain under left rib cage. In this health condition, the placenta detaches itself from the uterus before the baby is born. This is known as placental abruption. The stomach stays hard without relief. Apart from pain under left rib cage, other symptoms include back pain, bloody discharge of fluid and premature breakage of water.
21.) Round Ligament Pain Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
Pregnancy can also be a reason behind pain under left rib cage. This type of pain is very harmless during pregnancy. It is basically in the second trimester. In this type of health condition, the ligaments running from the uterus are stretched. This results in pain. This pain can be either dull or cause stabbing sensation when you change your position.
22.) Urinary Tract Infection Cause Pain Under Left Rib Cage
This can be another important reason that cause pain under left rib cage. Urinary tract infection is not a serious problem if it is treated on time. But if the infection spreads to the kidney it can create serious problems such as left rib cage. The symptoms of this condition can cause pain under left rib cage or above the pelvic bone. It is accompanied by chills, sweat, nausea and fever. Pain under left rib cage can be caused because of several reasons. So it’s better you find out the correct symptoms and consult the doctor.
Treatment for Pain Under Left Rib Cage:
Surgery – It for rare cases. Mostly if the pain is the result of damaged or broken rib cage.
Medication – In most of the cases, pain can be easily treated with medication. You just have to take prescriptions from the doctor.
Dietary Changes – If the pain is the result of acid reflux and heartburn then simply bringing some changed in your diet will do the job.