What could be causing a dull pain under the left rib that worsens with pressure?

Generally, dull pain under the left rib cage that worsens with pressure may be caused by poor posture, overexertion, costochondritis, gastritis, pleurisy, or other conditions. If the pain persists or is accompanied by other discomforts, it is advisable to pay timely attention to your physical condition. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Poor Posture

Prolonged sitting, bending forward, or sleeping on one side can continuously compress the muscles beneath the left ribs, leading to impaired local blood circulation and resulting in dull pain, which becomes more noticeable upon pressing. Adjust posture promptly, avoid prolonged sitting or bending; stand up and move every hour. Gently massaging the painful area can promote blood flow and relieve muscle tension.

2. Overexertion

Recent intense exercise, lifting heavy objects, or frequent coughing may cause muscle strain under the left rib, leading to dull pain. Pressing on the area stimulates the injured site, intensifying the pain. Reduce physical activity and ensure adequate rest. Applying heat to the affected area for 15–20 minutes, twice daily, can help muscles recover.

3. Costochondritis

Inflammation of the costal cartilage caused by viral infection or exposure to cold may lead to dull pain at the left costal cartilage, which worsens with pressure and may increase during movement. Stay warm and avoid chilling. When pain is significant, topical diclofenac diethylamine gel, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or celecoxib capsules may be used under medical guidance to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

4. Gastritis

Irregular eating habits, overeating, or Helicobacter pylori infection can trigger gastric inflammation, causing pain that radiates to the area under the left rib, resulting in a dull ache. Pressure on this region stimulates the stomach, making the pain more pronounced. Adjust diet and avoid spicy or greasy foods. Under medical supervision, omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, aluminum magnesium carbonate chewable tablets, or domperidone tablets may be taken to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.

5. Pleurisy

Inflammation of the pleura due to lung infection or trauma may cause dull pain under the left rib near the chest cavity. Pressure aggravates the pain due to irritation of the pleura, possibly accompanied by coughing or chest tightness. Avoid strenuous activities to minimize pleural stretching. Under medical guidance, antibiotics such as cefuroxime axetil tablets, azithromycin dispersible tablets, or levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules should be used to control infection and reduce inflammation.

In daily life, maintain regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), avoid excessive fatigue, eat a balanced diet to reduce gastric irritation, and avoid pressing on the painful area or engaging in vigorous activity when pain occurs. If pain persists for more than three days, it is recommended to visit an internal medicine or thoracic surgery department for evaluation and proper diagnosis and treatment.