What Causes Nagging Pain In The Left Rib Cage?

Posted on Sun, 27 Aug 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 27 Aug 2017 Answered on

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : i have for weeks now a sharp nagging pain in my left ribcage.it has now begin to spread across my back and now across to my abdomen ,.its more severe when i sit or lie.less so when i am walkng around.

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Most likely musculoskeletal pain.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM

I have gone through your query. Your problem is most likely musculoskeletal pain. It can be costochondritis or muscle strain.
Applying anti inflammatory gels containing diclofenac or ketoprofen, methylsalicylate and capsaicin will be helpful. You can also take NSAIDs like Ibuprofen 400 mg twice daily for 5 daily. This is available as over the counter in brands like motrin or advil.
It is better to do an ECG(EKG) to rule out cardiac problems to be on safe side.

Let me know if anything not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Nishad BN (2 hours later)

i also have heart failure.are those painkillers you recommended safe?

Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
There is some increase in risk for heart attack with ibuprofen.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome again.

Thank you for your follow up.

There is some increased risk of having heart attack while taking ibuprofen. So you can avoid it and use anti inflammatory gels like diclofenac or ketoprofen. You can take acetaminophen 500 to1000mg twice daily which is safe.

Let me know if anything not clear.
Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D