What illness might be indicated by pain under the breast rib?
Apr 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Xiaopeng
Introduction
There are various possible causes for pain under the breast involving the ribs. It may result from rib injury, or be caused by conditions such as shingles or mastitis. Additionally, it could be a symptom of breast tumors. It is important to seek prompt medical evaluation to establish an accurate diagnosis. Once diagnosed, appropriate treatment should be carried out under a doctor's guidance to prevent the condition from worsening.
There are various possible causes for pain in the ribs below the breast, which may result from rib injury, or diseases such as shingles or mastitis. It may also be accompanied by discomfort symptoms including lumps and pain.
1. Rib Injury
When the ribs below the breast suffer external impact, rib injuries may occur, and in severe cases, rib fractures can develop, leading to pain that typically worsens during breathing. It is important to promptly visit a hospital for a CT scan. If only soft tissue contusion is present, symptoms can be relieved through adequate rest, cold compresses, and warm compresses. However, if a fracture is confirmed, timely medical treatment with external fixation at a hospital is necessary.
2. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
Infection with the varicella-zoster virus in the rib area below the breast can cause skin rashes along the affected nerve pathway, accompanied by severe pain. Under a doctor's guidance, antiviral medications such as acyclovir tablets, valacyclovir capsules, or famciclovir capsules can be used for treatment.
3. Mastitis
Mastitis refers to inflammation of the breast tissue, with or without infection, which can cause symptoms such as pain, redness, swelling, and fever in the breast. When the inflammatory area spreads, it may affect the ribs below the breast, resulting in pain. With medical advice, appropriate warm compresses can help promote resolution of inflammation. Additionally, antibiotics should be used according to medical instructions, such as oxacillin sodium for injection, cefradine for injection, or ceftriaxone sodium for injection.
Furthermore, these symptoms could also be caused by breast tumors. It is essential to seek prompt medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment under a physician’s guidance.
