What Causes Pain Under The Rib Cage After An Endoscopy?

Posted on Thu, 10 Aug 2017

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

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 Answered on

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Yesterday i had an endroscopy procedure done andthey removed a polyp at the base of the esphopogus and the stomach. I feel fine standing but when i lay down i get a dull pain at the base of the rib cage that hurts worse when i have completed exhaling. Also feel a small lump at the bottom of the rib cage. Any idea what this might be

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Possibly due to presence of gas in stomach and esophagus

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for trusting HealthcareMagic for your health concern

During endoscopy procedure gas is used to distend the esophagus and stomach to get a clear picture.
The lump and pain you are noticing is likely due to presence of the gas in stomach.
It is nothing to be worried. The gas will be reabsorbed in next 2-3 days and your symptoms will resolve. Meanwhile, take adequate rest. Eat small portions of food rather than full meals.

If you notice worsening pain, chest pain, vomiting, cough, fever, breathlessness, dizziness or blood in stools follow up with the emergency room as soon as possible, as the possibility of perforation and bleeding should be considered at that point.
Right now your symptoms are not suggestive of perforation and there is nothing to be worried about.

Hope this answers your questions
Please address further questions here
Regards
Dr.Lekshmi

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