What causes pain in the right upper chest?

Right upper chest pain may be caused by various factors. In general, it could result from conditions such as costochondritis, pleuritis, cholecystitis, hepatitis, or acute myocardial infarction. If the right upper chest pain persists or worsens, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation promptly and receive treatment under a doctor's guidance based on the underlying cause. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Costochondritis: Costochondritis refers to inflammation of the cartilage at the junction between the sternum and ribs, causing chest pain that typically worsens with breathing or coughing. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as chest tightness and rib swelling. Medications such as acetaminophen tablets, naproxen sodium tablets, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may be used as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.

2. Pleuritis: Pleuritis is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections that irritate the pleura, leading to inflammation. This inflammation stimulates nerve endings in the pleura, resulting in right upper chest pain, often accompanied by fever, cough, and rapid breathing. Pain relief may be achieved with medications such as aspirin tablets, rifampicin tablets, or dihydrocodeine bitartrate tablets as prescribed. Severe cases may require hospitalization.

3. Cholecystitis: Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder, commonly caused by gallstones or parasites obstructing the neck of the gallbladder. It can cause right upper chest pain, along with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever. Treatment may include medications such as anti-inflammatory and bile-promoting tablets, clindamycin hydrochloride tablets, or ursodeoxycholic acid tablets, as directed by a physician.

4. Hepatitis: Hepatitis is caused by various pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. Pain from active hepatitis or liver damage may radiate to the chest, causing discomfort in the right upper chest area, along with symptoms like fatigue and loss of appetite. Medications such as ciprofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, cefuroxime axetil tablets, or levofloxacin tablets may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.

5. Acute Myocardial Infarction: This occurs when blood supply to the coronary arteries is insufficient or completely blocked, leading to ischemia or necrosis of the heart muscle. It causes secondary chest pain that may radiate to the neck, shoulders, and right arm, accompanied by sweating, shortness of breath, and nausea. Medications such as amlodipine besylate and atorvastatin calcium tablets, dicoumarol tablets, or metoprolol tartrate tablets may be used under medical supervision.

It is advisable to maintain adequate rest, avoid smoking and alcohol, and follow a light diet in daily life. If any physical discomfort occurs, early consultation with a doctor is recommended to obtain professional assessment and advice. The doctor may perform a thorough physical examination, diagnostic tests, and develop a personalized treatment plan.