Why Would I Have Sudden Sharp Stabbing Pain Under The Left Ribcage While Taking Deep Breaths Along With Excessive Belching?

Posted on Mon, 21 May 2018

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

Mon, 21 May 2018 Answered on

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 Last reviewed on

Question : Sudden sharp stabbing pain under left ribcage when taking a deep breath in, pain under ribs on left side and can be felt up in shoulder, shortly after pain started I began excessively belching.

Answered by Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
possible lower respiratory tract issue.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I have read your query thoroughly.

* Possible to have lower respiratory tract infection involving lower lobe of lungs
and referred pain to shoulder.

Kindly provide me further details so that I can answer your query completely.

1. Associated cough, breathing difficulties, fever if any.
2. Any history of trauma or fall recently.

Till you answer this, primary relief with heating pad application and intake of tablet paracetamol with antacid tablet would help.

Awaiting for your response.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy

Follow up: Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (2 hours later)

1. No cough, no difficulty breathing other than the sudden onset of sharp pain when taking a deep breath, and no fever 2. No trauma or fall. I do have a one year old whom likes to crawl on me and be carried around. I have had gastrointestinal upset having to use the bathroom several times. the pain subsided for a bit but has returned.

Answered by Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
muscle or ligament spasm or strain.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for the details.

* Most possible cause is muscle or ligament spasm or strain.

* Guidelines at present for better recovery

- Local application of analgesic spray or ointment 3 times a day after meals after
ice pack application.
- Avoid sudden bending, weight lifting or direct pressure over the part.
- Take tablet ibuprofen ( 400 mg ) with antacid after meals 3 times a day.

Follow up after 2 days or early as per the requirement.
Wish you fine recovery.

Take care.

Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy