What causes pain below the left rib cage during exhalation?

Pain below the left rib during exhalation may be caused by physiological factors or pathological conditions, such as pleurisy or intercostal neuritis. The specific analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Factors

Engaging in excessively strenuous physical activity may lead to a side stitch (exercise-related transient abdominal pain), increasing intrapleural pressure and causing pain below the left rib during breathing. This symptom usually resolves with adequate rest.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Pleurisy

Pleurisy can be triggered by bacterial, parasitic, or fungal infections. Under stimulation by inflammatory factors, fluid may accumulate in the pleural cavity, resulting in the aforementioned symptoms. Patients should seek treatment at a qualified medical facility, where surgical removal of the infectious focus may be required.

2. Intercostal Neuritis

Intercostal neuritis is commonly caused by thoracic spine degeneration, thoracic spinal injury, or viral infection. Stimulation from these factors may lead to nerve irritation in the rib area, producing the described pain. Treatment may include medications such as mecobalamin tablets or enteric-coated aspirin tablets, used according to medical advice.

In addition, pain below the left rib during exhalation could also result from costochondritis, angina pectoris, pneumonia, or other conditions. Patients are advised to avoid engaging in overly strenuous physical activities during treatment.