Pain under the left rib, as if having a side stitch, hurts with each breath when lying down

In general, pain under the left rib cage that feels like a side stitch and worsens with breathing while lying down may be caused by conditions such as costochondritis, intercostal neuritis, or rib fractures. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Costochondritis

Bacterial infections, immune system abnormalities, and other factors may trigger costochondritis. Under stimulation by inflammatory mediators, patients may experience pain under the left rib cage resembling a side stitch, which intensifies upon breathing while lying down. This condition can usually be treated with medications such as etoricoxib tablets or procaine hydrochloride injection, but medication must be used under the guidance of a qualified physician.

2. Intercostal Neuritis

Degenerative changes in the thoracic spine, spinal tuberculosis, or similar conditions may lead to intercostal neuritis. Affected individuals may develop the aforementioned symptoms and should follow medical advice to use medications such as mecobalamin tablets or celecoxib capsules for treatment.

3. Rib Fracture

If the ribs suffer a strong external impact resulting in a fracture, this symptom may occur. Patients should promptly seek care at a正规 medical institution where surgical correction using metal plates may be required.

In addition, pain under the left rib cage that feels like a side stitch and worsens with breathing while lying down could also be caused by gastric spasm, acute liver cirrhosis, cholecystitis, or other conditions. It is recommended that patients maintain healthy lifestyle habits during treatment.