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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Pain Below The Rib Cage On The Left Side?

Hi, I have been experiencing a pain left side below rib cage. tender to touch. Have to sleep on my right side. Have not done anything like bump into something, stretch unnaturally I did however travel last week involved sitting long periods of time on plane and in vehicles. Began last Thursday and still persists. Sometimes feel slight nausea. Thoughts Thinking about calling my PCP?
Tue, 30 Jul 2019
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hi,

The probable causes I can think about are as follows:
Costochondritis as there is local pain on ouch.
Gastritis as there is nausea.
The best way to get a p[roper diagnosis is by the following ways:
Consult your Doctor for an actual examination to see for costochondritis.
If positive then get a prescription for anti-inflammatory medications, take rest and also a PPI like Pantoprazole.
IF this relieves pain then the diagnosis is obvious and continue the treatment till cured.
Also needed is to avoid stress and anxiety as these instigate or enhance the problems.
If there is associated burning sensation in the chest and upper abdomen then acid peptic disease needs consideration, continue a PPI and take antacids, get an Upper GI Endoscopy done to see what exactly is the problem and get treated accordingly.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. T Chandrakant, General Surgeon
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What Causes Pain Below The Rib Cage On The Left Side?

Hi, The probable causes I can think about are as follows: Costochondritis as there is local pain on ouch. Gastritis as there is nausea. The best way to get a p[roper diagnosis is by the following ways: Consult your Doctor for an actual examination to see for costochondritis. If positive then get a prescription for anti-inflammatory medications, take rest and also a PPI like Pantoprazole. IF this relieves pain then the diagnosis is obvious and continue the treatment till cured. Also needed is to avoid stress and anxiety as these instigate or enhance the problems. If there is associated burning sensation in the chest and upper abdomen then acid peptic disease needs consideration, continue a PPI and take antacids, get an Upper GI Endoscopy done to see what exactly is the problem and get treated accordingly. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. T Chandrakant, General Surgeon