Exploring Recurring Right Side Pain
I'm a 39-year-old who has been experiencing intermittent discomfort on the right side of my body, specifically near my ribs and a bit lower. When I press on that area, it feels notably firm and sensitive. Additionally, there's discomfort even when I don’t touch it, and it intensifies if I lean toward that side. I had my appendix taken out back in 2021, so that shouldn't be the cause. This pain has been occurring sporadically for quite some time. Last year, I opted for a private scan since my general practitioner thought there might be gallbladder problems. However, by the time the appointment rolled around, which was two weeks later, the pain had vanished and the ultrasound revealed nothing abnormal. Could there be an underlying reason for this recurring pain? Is there any specific test I could recommend to my doctor? I would greatly appreciate any insights or suggestions. Updates: I've added some additional details to clarify my situation.
Answers (1)
7/20/2025, 12:30:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing persistent and intermittent discomfort on your right side, which can be frustrating and concerning. This could be due to several factors, and understanding the nature of the pain is essential for finding relief.
Explanation:
The pain you're describing, especially if it's firm and sensitive to touch, could be linked to several potential causes, including:
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Muscle Strain or Injury: Repeated movements or poor posture may lead to muscle strain, especially if the pain intensifies with certain positions like leaning.
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Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage connecting your ribs to the breastbone can cause localized pain that feels worse when touching the area or moving in certain ways.
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Digestive Issues: Although your gallbladder has been ruled out, issues relating to the intestines or other digestive organs can sometimes present as localized pain.
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Referred Pain: Conditions affecting organs like the kidneys or parts of the digestive system can also cause discomfort in the rib area, even if the organ itself isn’t directly affected.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Journal: Start keeping a diary of your symptoms—note when the pain occurs, its intensity, duration, and any activities that trigger or relieve it. This information can help paint a clearer picture for your doctor.
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Physical Examination: Consider contacting your healthcare provider for a thorough physical exam focused on your abdomen and ribs. This can help rule out specific muscle issues or localized tenderness.
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Targeted Imaging: Depending on your doctor's assessment, you may want to discuss the possibility of imaging tests. A CT scan could provide a more detailed view of the area compared to an ultrasound. This could help rule out any internal issues that an ultrasound might miss.
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Consider Specialist Consultation: If your primary care provider finds no clear cause, you might explore seeing a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist or a rheumatologist, especially if there is a suspicion of a digestive issue or inflammatory condition.
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Manage Symptoms: In the meantime, consider treatments for pain relief such as over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, provided you don’t have any contraindications. Applying heat or cold to the area may also help soothe discomfort.
Reassurance:
It’s absolutely valid to seek clarity regarding this discomfort, especially since it has been recurring. Taking proactive steps to monitor your symptoms and communicating with your healthcare provider is a great way to ensure you receive the attention necessary to address any underlying issues. If your symptoms change or worsen, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor sooner.
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