What could be causing a dull pain inside the lower right rib cage?
Sep 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
In general, dull pain inside the lower right rib area may be caused by factors such as trauma, intercostal neuralgia, myofascial inflammation, cholecystitis, or tuberculosis. When local contusions, lacerations, or rib fractures result from trauma, patients may experience a dull internal pain beneath the right ribs, with pain worsening during deep breathing. Localized skin bruising or damage may also be visible.
Generally, dull pain inside the lower right rib area may be caused by factors such as trauma, intercostal neuralgia, myofasciitis, cholecystitis, or tuberculosis. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Trauma
Trauma may lead to local contusions, lacerations, or rib fractures, causing a sensation of dull internal pain beneath the right ribs. The pain typically worsens during deep breathing and may be accompanied by visible bruising or skin damage at the site. During treatment, patients should ensure adequate rest and pay attention to their diet, consuming light and easily digestible foods such as apples, oranges, and tomatoes. Spicy and irritating foods should be avoided, as well as alcohol consumption, to promote recovery.
2. Intercostal Neuralgia
Intercostal neuralgia can result from thoracic spine disorders or viral infections. When the right intercostal nerve is affected, it may manifest as dull internal pain beneath the right ribs, with increased discomfort during coughing or deep breathing. Patients may take medications such as carbamazepine tablets, gabapentin capsules, or phenytoin sodium tablets under medical guidance.
3. Myofasciitis
Myofasciitis is an aseptic inflammation of muscles and fascia. Strenuous exercise or heavy physical labor may stretch the fascial tissues, potentially leading to localized swelling and pain. Therefore, dull pain below the right rib could be due to myofasciitis. Treatment may include medications such as celecoxib capsules or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, taken as directed by a physician.
4. Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis is usually caused by bile duct obstruction or bile stasis, and gallstones are also a common cause. Symptoms include abdominal distension and pain, muscle rigidity, postprandial fullness, nausea, and sometimes a persistent dull ache beneath the lower right rib. Treatment may involve prescribed medications such as anti-inflammatory and bile-promoting tablets or hepatobiliary舒康 capsules. In severe cases, cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal surgery) may be required.
5. Tuberculosis (Pulmonary Tuberculosis)
Pulmonary tuberculosis is caused by infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, weakened immune function, use of immunosuppressive drugs, or poor nutrition. Common symptoms include chest pain, fatigue, night sweats, and cough with sputum production, which may also lead to a dull ache beneath the lower right rib. Treatment requires prescribed anti-tuberculosis medications such as rifampicin capsules and ethambutol hydrochloride tablets.
In addition, dull internal pain in the lower right rib area could also be caused by conditions such as gallstones or hepatitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and standardized treatment.
