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What Causes Sudden Pain In Ribs, Lower Back, Cold And Loss Of Appetite?

Posted on Mon, 16 May 2016

Question: I had a sudden onset of pain in my ribs front and back. It extends into my lower back.
It happened at the same time that I caught a cold and was coughing a lot. I thought it was general body aches related to a cold but the cold is gone and rib pain persists. Also loss of appetite.

Answered by Dr. Sandip Kabra (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Likely muscular or musculoskeletal pain.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome to HCM.

This kind of sudden pain in front and back side of ribs extending to lower back is likely muscular pain or musculoskeletal.

You should also for for EKG for a safer side,however there almost NO chance of having any cardiac involvement in your case.

But better to rule it out.

Meanwhile,continue with over the counter pain killer (aleve) for symptomatic relief and antihistamine like cetrizine 10 mg twice daily if you still have a cough.

Ensure that you maintain an appropriate posture while working or sitting or walking.

Discontinue using pillow while sleeping straight.

Do not lift heavy objects, especially after bending down.

Eat a healthy wholesome meal which should satisfy your minerals and proteins requirement.

Loss of appetite is not a worrisome symptom since it can be possible after cold for a initial few days.

We may expect to see improvement within 2 to 3 days with this symptomatic treatment but in case if your rib and back pain persists with loss of appetite,then better to see some local doctor or GP who will evaluate it further by tests and respective scan.

Hope this helps and let me know if you have more questions.

Regards,

Dr.Sandip Kabra

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar

Follow up: Dr. Sandip Kabra (3 hours later)

Thank you Dr. Kabra,

Although I've never had this problem before, it did occur after playing golf 3 days in a row.

I appreciate your input and feel some peace of mind that it is likely a temporary musculoskeletal issue.

Thank you,

Merri Harding

Answered by Dr. Sandip Kabra (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Most welcome.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for your appreciation.You are most welcome.

You may continue with OTC pain killer medications for symptomatic relief.

If you still have any doubt then I will be happy to help you or if you do not have any more question,please close the discussion with feed back rating.

Wishing good health,

Regards,

Dr.Sandip Kabra

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad