What Causes Pain Under The Rib Cage While Coughing?

Posted on Wed, 12 Apr 2017

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

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 Answered on

Wed, 3 May 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I am just getting over a cold, feeling healthy but a nagging and persistent mostly dry cough. My rib cage in my lower abdomin is radiating a dull ache / pain, when I cough. The symptom checker said i should seek emergency treatment. Really? I feel almost normal, just sick of the cough and attendent pain.

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
No need for emergency care at this time!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for contacting us at HealthcareMagic.

The pain following a nagging dry cough is okay. There is no reason to seek emergency care at this time.

If the cough becomes totally unbearable, I will suggest that you go ahead and get Dextromethorphan for relief. Meanwhile stay well hydrated, drink a lot of water and warm liquids (eg. menta tea, soups etc.) for symptomatic relief.

I hope this helps. I wish you well.

Feel free to follow up with me if need be.
Kind regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee