What causes occasional pain in the right upper quadrant?
Disease description:
I have occasionally experienced mild pain in the lower right side of my ribs recently. The pain isn't severe, but its recurring nature is quite concerning. I'm generally in good health and haven't experienced any other obvious discomfort. What could be causing this?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Occasional pain in the lower right rib area may be caused by various factors; the following are some possible explanations:
1. Muscle strain: Prolonged heavy physical labor or intense exercise may lead to chronic injuries of the muscles, fascia, and ligaments, causing dull pain beneath the right ribs.
2. Intercostal neuralgia: Trauma to the ribs or the spread of inflammation from adjacent tissues or organs may irritate the intercostal nerves, causing pain that often follows a band-like distribution.
3. Costochondritis: Trauma or infection may cause inflammation of the costal cartilage, resulting in an inflammatory response that leads to swelling, pain, and tenderness.
4. Hepatobiliary system diseases: Conditions such as gallstones, cholecystitis, or hepatitis may cause pain in the upper right abdomen, which may sometimes radiate to the right shoulder or back.
5. Kidney problems: Right kidney stones or infections may also cause pain in the right abdominal area, particularly when the pain intensifies during movement or deep breathing.
6. Gastrointestinal diseases: These include gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, or appendicitis. Although the appendix is located in the lower right abdomen, pain may initially start around the navel and then shift to the lower right abdomen during the early stages.
