What are the causes of dull pain under the left abdominal rib area in cholecystitis?

Nov 05, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, dull pain below the left rib cage caused by cholecystitis may be due to various factors such as muscle tension or strain, visceral referred pain, cholelithiasis, intercostal neuralgia, pancreatitis, and others. Prolonged poor posture, intense physical activity, or accidental muscle strain can lead to muscle tension or injury below the left rib cage, resulting in dull pain.

Under normal circumstances, dull pain below the ribs in the left abdomen caused by cholecystitis may be due to various factors such as muscle tension or strain, visceral referred pain, cholelithiasis, intercostal neuralgia, pancreatitis, and others. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Muscle Tension or Strain

Prolonged poor posture, intense physical activity, or accidental muscle strain may lead to muscle tension or injury in the lower left abdominal rib area, resulting in dull pain. Rest appropriately, avoid strenuous exercise, and apply local heat therapy or massage to help relieve discomfort.

2. Visceral Referred Pain

Pain from cholecystitis may sometimes radiate to the left subcostal region, especially when inflammation is severe or there is abnormal nerve conduction. Treatment should target cholecystitis itself, including antibiotics, antispasmodics, and analgesics; surgical intervention may be necessary in some cases.

3. Cholelithiasis (Gallstones)

Cholelithiasis primarily results from abnormalities in bile composition. When gallstones move or become lodged in the cystic duct or common bile duct, bile flow is obstructed, leading to increased pressure within the gallbladder and subsequent inflammatory response, which can cause dull pain below the ribs on the left side. Symptoms may include jaundice and fever. Medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid tablets, chenodeoxycholic acid capsules, or racemic hyoscine tablets may be used as directed by a physician.

4. Intercostal Neuralgia

Intercostal neuralgia may arise from thoracic lesions or other factors. Inflammation, trauma, or compression can irritate the intercostal nerves, causing pain that may radiate along the nerve pathway to the left lower rib area. Local tenderness and heightened nerve sensitivity may also occur. It is recommended to use medications such as oseltamivir phosphate capsules, amoxicillin capsules, or mecobalamin tablets under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

5. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis may be triggered by factors such as alcohol consumption or metabolic disorders. Inflammatory changes in pancreatic tissue produce excessive exudates, which stimulate and compress the retroperitoneal nerve plexus, leading to dull pain below the ribs on the left side. Additional symptoms may include nausea and vomiting. Symptom relief may involve medications such as penicillin V potassium tablets, pancreatin enteric-coated capsules, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, used under medical supervision.

In addition, it is important to develop healthy lifestyle habits, adjust dietary patterns, and engage in appropriate physical activity.

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