Causes of Dull Pain Below the Left Rib Cage
Jan 15, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
1. Left-sided costochondritis: A few days later, the affected costal cartilage area may develop a raised, tender or sharply painful swelling; patients may also experience symptoms such as coughing and cutaneous abscesses.
2. Gastric disorders: In mild cases, patients may experience dull upper abdominal pain—specifically, a vague discomfort beneath the left ribs.
3. Herpes zoster: If herpes zoster affects the area beneath the left ribs, patients may experience vague (dull or intermittent) pain.
There are numerous potential causes of dull pain beneath the left ribs, including costochondritis, gastric disorders, herpes zoster (shingles), and pleuritis. So, what exactly causes this type of discomfort? Below, we address this question in detail.
Causes of Dull Pain Beneath the Left Ribs
1. Left-Sided Costochondritis
Patients with left-sided costochondritis may experience dull pain beneath the left ribs. As the condition progresses, they may develop chest pain. Within several days, the affected costochondral junctions may become swollen and tender—sometimes sharply painful—forming palpable, raised nodules. Additional symptoms may include coughing and cutaneous abscesses.
2. Gastric Disorders
Gastric conditions such as gastritis or gastric ulcers may cause mild upper abdominal pain—often perceived as dull pain beneath the left ribs. Common associated symptoms include epigastric pain, chest discomfort, abdominal distension, belching, gastrointestinal bleeding, loss of appetite, acid reflux, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and unintentional weight loss.
3. Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
If shingles affects the dermatomal region beneath the left ribs, patients may experience dull pain in that area. Typical manifestations of shingles include localized pain, erythematous macules or papules, vesicular skin lesions, a burning sensation on the skin, generalized fatigue, low-grade fever, and reduced appetite.
4. Pleuritis
Pleuritis can also cause dull pain beneath the left ribs. Additional symptoms commonly observed include pleuritic chest pain (worsened by breathing or coughing), cough, chest tightness, tachypnea, dyspnea, chills, fever, night sweats, and fatigue.
The above outlines the primary causes of dull pain beneath the left ribs. We hope this information is helpful to you.
