What causes pain under the ribs?
Disease description:
Recently, I have often felt a dull pain under the ribs. Sometimes I feel discomfort when stretching my body. May I ask, what could cause pain below the ribs?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Shuai
Pain below the ribs can have various causes, including but not limited to:
1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus can cause pain behind the breastbone or below the ribs, often accompanied by heartburn, belching, and other symptoms.
2. Gastritis or peptic ulcer: Inflammation or ulcers in the stomach can also cause discomfort in the upper abdomen, sometimes with pain radiating to the area below the ribs.
3. Liver or gallbladder diseases: Hepatitis, cholecystitis, or gallstones may cause pain in the upper right abdomen, which can sometimes be felt beneath the ribs.
4. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back.
If the pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms (such as fever, vomiting, jaundice, or difficulty breathing), prompt medical attention is advised.
