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Suggest Treatment For Pain And Soreness In Ribs
Question: I have a soreness under my left rib cage. It has been sore there for about two weeks. I thought it might be a muscle problem at first, but now it seems like more? Any idea of what might be causing the internal soreness in that area?
Brief Answer:
Muscles of rib cage, diaphragm, stomach.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
In the area you are describing are the muscles and cartilage of the rib cage, muscle wall, possibly the diaphragm (depending on how far to the left), stomach, and possibly large intestine. The spleen is in this region but is over on the side and very deep. I doubt that it is involved.
If it is a problem with the stomach or pancreas, most likely ibuprofen would not help, and would very probably make it worse later because of irritation to the stomach lining. Usually stomach soreness will change depending on food - such as sore when the stomach is empty or very full.
The fact that ibuprofen helped somewhat makes me think it is musculskeletal - such as a strain in a muscle of the abdominal wall.
But it is hard to sort out entirely without an exam. The doctor, when palpating the abdomen, can tell what structures may be affected, and how far down in the abdomen the problem is.
So if it continues, consider going in to see your doctor.
I hope this information helps.
Muscles of rib cage, diaphragm, stomach.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,
In the area you are describing are the muscles and cartilage of the rib cage, muscle wall, possibly the diaphragm (depending on how far to the left), stomach, and possibly large intestine. The spleen is in this region but is over on the side and very deep. I doubt that it is involved.
If it is a problem with the stomach or pancreas, most likely ibuprofen would not help, and would very probably make it worse later because of irritation to the stomach lining. Usually stomach soreness will change depending on food - such as sore when the stomach is empty or very full.
The fact that ibuprofen helped somewhat makes me think it is musculskeletal - such as a strain in a muscle of the abdominal wall.
But it is hard to sort out entirely without an exam. The doctor, when palpating the abdomen, can tell what structures may be affected, and how far down in the abdomen the problem is.
So if it continues, consider going in to see your doctor.
I hope this information helps.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
OK, Thank You for the information. I just wanted to be sure it wasn't some possible problem with my heart. I have had two heart attacks in my life, one 14 years ago that required open heart surgery and 4 bypasses, and then one last year that required a stint. I have an appointment with my Cardiologist on Monday for a routine check up and I will ask him about it.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Brief Answer:
Some thoughts:
Detailed Answer:
If the pain is inside your left chest (not below it), or if there is a sensation of pressure anywhere in the area, then it could be your heart; and if it is getting worse, then you should go in to be seen and not wait until Monday.
Some thoughts:
Detailed Answer:
If the pain is inside your left chest (not below it), or if there is a sensation of pressure anywhere in the area, then it could be your heart; and if it is getting worse, then you should go in to be seen and not wait until Monday.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
It doesn't feel like there is any pressure or shortness of breath so I think it is just a muscle ache.
Thank You
Thank You
Brief Answer:
Your welcome
Detailed Answer:
Best regards,
Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, MD
Your welcome
Detailed Answer:
Best regards,
Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, MD
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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