Raised Ribs on the Left Side Accompanied by Chest Pain for Several Months
Personal Background: I am a 17-year-old Caucasian female residing in the United States. I smoke marijuana and currently weigh approximately 110 pounds, though my weight might be slightly lower since I haven't measured it recently. My height is 5 feet 8 inches, and I deal with anemia. I’m also taking medications: Zoloft and Lamictal, both at a dosage of 150 mg. Recently, I’ve observed that the ribs on my left side appear more prominent than those on my right. Initially, I only noticed this with one rib, but now it seems to affect all of them. For the past few months, I've experienced chest discomfort in that area as well. At first, the pain was quite intense, to the extent that I felt unable to breathe and sought emergency medical care. After undergoing a chest X-ray, blood tests, and a pulse examination, the doctors concluded that nothing was amiss at that time. I’m hesitant to trouble my siblings to take me to the hospital once more, especially because I suspect the doctors won’t find anything new to address my concerns, and the pain has subsided some. I'm merely looking for insights into what could be causing the abnormal appearance of my ribs. Thank you for any information you can provide!
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 6:20:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about the changes in your ribs and the accompanying chest discomfort you've been experiencing. The prominence of the ribs on one side, along with chest pain, can stem from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, postural changes, or soft tissue concerns, particularly since significant tests have already ruled out serious conditions.
Explanation:
- Musculoskeletal Issues: Problems such as muscle strain, inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs (costochondritis), or even rib misalignment can lead to one side appearing more prominent and cause discomfort.
- Posture: If your posture is uneven or if you've had changes in physical activity, this might also affect how your ribs appear and contribute to discomfort.
- Anemia: Since you mentioned having anemia, it can sometimes cause fatigue or weakness that may affect how your muscles support your torso, possibly adding to perceived rib prominence.
Next Steps:
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Observe Changes: Keep track of your rib visibility and chest pain. Note if the pain worsens with certain activities or positions, as this can provide insights into potential musculoskeletal issues.
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Posture Check: Work on your posture. Simple exercises to improve your core strength can help. Focus on keeping your back straight and shoulders back, especially when sitting or standing for long periods.
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Manage Stress: Since you're currently on Zoloft and Lamictal, ensure you are discussing any new symptoms or changes in your mental health with your healthcare provider. Stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension, which may contribute to chest discomfort.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) can help manage pain if it becomes bothersome, but consult a pharmacist for the best options considering your current medication.
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Gentle Exercise: Incorporate light stretching and strengthening exercises tailored for your core and upper body. This can improve muscle balance and potentially reduce discomfort.
If your symptoms persist, change, or worsen significantly, it would be essential to seek further evaluation, even if you feel hesitant. Your health and comfort are important, and getting the support you need when you're concerned is vital.
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