Rib pain upon touch can stem from various causes, ranging from minor injuries to more serious conditions. Let's explore some possibilities.
Common Causes of Rib Pain on Touch:
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Injury: A common cause is a simple injury like a pulled muscle, a bruise, or a broken rib. Broken ribs, in particular, are quite common and can take weeks or even months to heal. The affected area will be tender to the touch, and movements such as coughing or sneezing can exacerbate the pain. (Sources: Aurora Health Care, Ventura Orthopaedics)
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Costochondritis: This involves inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone. Pain is often localized and worsens when touching the ribs, particularly on the left side near the sternum. (Sources: Verywell Health, Quora)
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Fibromyalgia: This chronic condition causes widespread musculoskeletal pain. Rib pain, tender to the touch, is a potential symptom. (Sources: Verywell Health, Medical News Today)
Less Common, but Serious Possibilities:
- Lung Cancer: While less common, rib pain can be a sign of more serious conditions such as lung cancer. (Source: Medical News Today)
- Pulmonary Embolism: This is a blood clot in the lung; rib pain can be a symptom. (Source: Medical News Today)
- Spleen Problems: Pain behind the left ribs, tender to the touch, may indicate a problem with the spleen. (Source: NHS)
- Acid Reflux: In some cases, the pain may be referred pain originating from acid reflux. (Source: Aurora Health Care)
Diagnosing the Cause:
Determining the precise cause of your rib pain requires a proper medical evaluation. A doctor can perform a physical exam, assess your medical history, and potentially order imaging tests (like X-rays or CT scans) to reach a diagnosis. They will ask questions about the onset of pain, aggravating factors, and any relieving factors. (Source: UCSF Health)
Important Note: While many causes of rib pain are relatively benign, some can be serious. If you experience persistent, severe rib pain, especially accompanied by other symptoms (shortness of breath, chest pressure, etc.), seek immediate medical attention.
