Pain under the right-side ribs can occur after eating, during physical activity, or even without a clear reason. Sometimes it goes away quickly and is harmless, but in other cases, it may signal a problem with your internal organs.
The liver, gallbladder, and part of the intestine are found in this area. Pain here can have many causes, from minor digestive problems to conditions that need a doctor’s care.
In this article, we’ll explain in simple terms why you might feel pain under your right ribs, what symptoms to watch for, and which doctor you should see.
Keep in mind that just knowing where the pain is doesn’t always reveal the cause. If your pain is severe, keeps coming back, gets worse, or comes with other symptoms, you should see a doctor.
Which Organs Are Located Under the Ribs on the Right Side?
There are several organs in the upper right part of your abdomen.
These include:
liver;
gallbladder;
part of the small and large intestines;
the right kidney, which sits deeper and closer to your back;
and nearby muscles and ribs.
Sometimes, pain in this area isn’t caused by your abdominal organs. It can also come from muscles, nerves between the ribs, or even organs in your chest.
That’s why doctors look at not just where the pain is, but also what it feels like, how long it lasts, and any other symptoms you have.
Why Does It Hurt Under the Ribs on the Right Side?
Many possible causes can cause this pain.
The most common ones include:
gallbladder issues;
liver diseases;
digestive disorders;
increased gas formation;
bowel diseases;
issues with the right kidney;
muscle pain;
irritation of intercostal nerves.
Sometimes, pain starts after eating, moving, or exercising. Other times, it happens no matter what you’re doing or eating.
Pain Under the Ribs on the Right Side After Eating
If you feel discomfort after eating, especially after fatty or heavy meals, it could be a sign of gallbladder problems.
Pain from gallbladder issues is usually felt in the upper right abdomen and can sometimes spread to your right shoulder or back.
It may be accompanied by:
nausea;
vomiting;
a feeling of heaviness after eating;
elevated temperature;
bitter taste in the mouth.
If these symptoms keep coming back, see a doctor for a check-up.
Pain Due to the Gallbladder
Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation can cause pain under the right ribs.
If you have gallstones, the pain can come in waves or attacks. It often starts after eating and can be very strong.
When the gallbladder is inflamed, the pain usually lasts longer and may come with fever, nausea, and vomiting.
If you have severe pain that doesn’t go away or you start feeling worse, get medical help.
Can the Liver Hurt?
Yes, liver problems can cause discomfort in the upper right part of your abdomen.
However, the liver isn’t always to blame. In some early liver diseases, you might not feel any pain at all.
Possible accompanying signs of liver problems:
yellowish tint of the skin or whites of the eyes;
darkening of urine;
unusually pale stool;
nausea;
weakness;
loss of appetite.
If you notice these symptoms, see a doctor.
Pain Under the Ribs on the Right Side Radiating to the Back
If your pain spreads to your back or lower back, it might not just be from your liver or gallbladder.
Sometimes, kidney problems, muscle issues, or other conditions can also cause pain in this area.
It’s especially important to watch for other symptoms, such as:
pain or burning during urination;
frequent urges to use the bathroom;
blood in urine;
elevated temperature;
chills;
severe pain in the side or lower back.
If you have any of these signs, see a doctor as soon as you can.
Pain Under the Ribs on the Right Side When Inhaling
If your pain gets worse when you take a deep breath, cough, or move, it might be coming from your muscles or ribs.
Pain when breathing can also happen with some chest conditions.
If you also have shortness of breath, chest pain, severe weakness, or trouble breathing, get medical help right away.
When Does Pain Under the Ribs on the Right Side Require Urgent Help?
Don’t wait at home if your pain:
is very severe;
appeared suddenly and is rapidly intensifying;
does not go away;
is accompanied by a high fever;
is accompanied by repeated vomiting;
appeared after an injury;
is accompanied by yellowing of the skin or eyes;
is accompanied by severe weakness or fainting;
is accompanied by difficulty breathing or severe pain. In these situations, get medical help as soon as you can.
Which Doctor Should You See for Pain Under the Ribs on the Right Side?
If your pain isn’t severe but keeps coming back, start by seeing a general practitioner or family doctor. They’ll check you and, if needed, send you to a specialist.
Depending on the suspected cause, you may need:
a gastroenterologist — if diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, or gallbladder are suspected;
a hepatologist — if the liver needs to be examined;
a urologist — if there are signs of kidney or urinary tract disease;
a surgeon — if the doctor suspects a condition that may require surgical treatment.
If your pain is severe and started suddenly, don’t wait for a regular appointment. Go to an emergency room or urgent care right away.
What Examinations Might the Doctor Prescribe?
First, the doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine you.
Depending on the situation, the following may be needed:
complete blood count;
blood biochemical test;
urinalysis;
abdominal ultrasound;
other laboratory tests;
additional diagnostic methods as indicated.
Doctors often use ultrasound to check the liver and gallbladder, but the exact tests you need will depend on your symptoms and exam results.
Don’t try to get every possible test on your own. Your doctor will tell you which ones you really need.
Where to See a Doctor in Tbilisi?
If your pain isn’t severe and you don’t need emergency care, you can book an appointment with a family doctor or gastroenterologist at a clinic.
If your pain is severe or comes on suddenly, go to the nearest emergency department. There are hospitals in Tbilisi that offer 24/7 care.
Before you visit a clinic, check their schedule, confirm the right specialist is available, and find out whether you can get the needed tests done.
What Can You Tell the Doctor?
To help your doctor figure out what’s causing your pain, try to note a few things ahead of time.
Tell them:
when the pain appeared;
where exactly it is located;
whether it is constant or occurs in attacks;
whether the pain is related to food intake;
whether it intensifies with movement or inhaling;
whether the pain radiates to the back, shoulder, or chest;
whether there is a fever;
whether nausea or vomiting appeared;
whether urination or stool habits have changed.
This information will help your doctor decide which tests you need more quickly.
Can You Treat Pain on Your Own?
Don’t start treating yourself just based on what you read online.
Pain under the right ribs can have many causes, so a medicine that helps one problem might not work for another.
If your pain keeps coming back, it’s best to see a doctor and find out why.
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