What causes severe right rib pain during pregnancy, and what should be done about it?
Mar 01, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, severe right rib pain in pregnant women during pregnancy may be caused by factors such as fetal growth putting pressure on the muscles of the ribs, uterine compression, intercostal neuralgia, cholecystitis, or gallstones. Specific details are as follows: In summary, if a patient experiences discomfort symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to prevent serious consequences.
Under normal circumstances, severe right rib pain in pregnant women during pregnancy may be caused by factors such as fetal growth pressing on the muscles of the ribs, uterine compression, intercostal neuralgia, cholecystitis, or gallstones. Specific causes are as follows:
1. Fetal growth compressing the muscles attached to the ribs
As the fetus grows during pregnancy, the uterus expands, causing the lateral abdominal muscles attached to the ribs to be compressed and stretched, resulting in pressure. Over time, this can lead to rib pain. Women with smaller hips or larger fetuses may even face a risk of rib fractures. Pain may worsen when walking under load, straining during bowel movements, or coughing. This condition is generally normal and does not require special treatment.
2. Uterine compression
As pregnancy progresses, the growing fetus and uterus may compress the lower edge of the ribs, potentially causing rib pain. This condition usually requires no special treatment and typically resolves gradually after delivery.
3. Intercostal neuralgia
If a pregnant woman frequently gets cold or experiences excessive fatigue during pregnancy, it may trigger intercostal neuritis, leading to rib pain that may radiate to the upper back. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as oryzanol tablets or vitamin B1 tablets may be used for treatment. It is important to stay warm and avoid exposure to cold in daily life.
4. Cholecystitis
Pregnant women who already have cholecystitis may experience flare-ups during pregnancy due to bile stasis, resulting in severe colicky pain in the upper right abdomen, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Under medical supervision, medications such as anti-inflammatory and bile-promoting tablets, penicillin V potassium tablets, or cefixime capsules may be used for treatment.
5. Gallstones
A sharp increase in estrogen levels can also increase the risk of gallstone formation by enlarging cholesterol deposits, thereby causing rib pain. Patients may take omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, metoprolol tartrate sustained-release tablets, or other medications as directed by a physician.
In summary, if a patient experiences discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to prevent serious complications.
