What Causes Pulsating Sensations Right Below Ribs?

Posted on Mon, 14 Mar 2016

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

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 Answered on

Sat, 21 May 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, recently I have been experiencing a pulsating feeling right below my left rib. It feels like a heart beat sensation and is visible if I look at my stomach but is not to the beat of my heart. It is painless as far as I know. Just wondering if this could be serious, or if it is something minor. Should I get it checked out?

Answered by Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Get it checked out

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Any pulsation should not be visible on to the skin of the abdomen. Are you able to feel it with the tip of the finger?
If you are able to feel it with the tip of finger then it is mostly originating from artery. Venous pulsations are only seen but not felt. This is the difference.

I suggest you to go and checked out with a local doctor.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina

Follow up: Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (20 hours later)

Thanks,
I can feel it with the tip of my finger and can also see it when I look at my abdomen. But it is not constant, it will start to pulsate, than will stop for several hours and begin again. Not sure if this helps at all determine what it might be?
I will try and get it checked out when I can.

Answered by Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Get it checked

Detailed Answer:
If it is noncontinuous you should get the blood pressure, pulse checked. So prudent to visit a local doctor when possible.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Aparna Kohli