Pain under the right side of your rib cage also called right upper quadrant (RUQ) pain can be unsettling because many vital organs live in that area.

While not all causes are serious, it’s important to understand the possible reasons you might feel discomfort there, what accompanying symptoms to watch for, and when you should seek urgent care or visit a 24/7 emergency room.

What’s Under Your Right Ribs?

The right side beneath the ribs houses several major organs, including:

  • Liver
  • Gallbladder
  • Right kidney
  • Parts of the small and large intestines.
  • Portion of the diaphragm and lower lung tissue.

Pain in this region can arise from gastrointestinal issues, organ inflammation, muscle strain, or referred pain from nearby structures.

Common Causes of Pain Under the Right Ribs

Common Causes of Pain Under the Right Ribs

1)   Gallbladder Problems

Gallstones or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) tend to be some of the most common causes for sharp or cramp-like pain right under the rib cage. The discomfort is frequently brought on by fat-laden meals and may radiate to the back or shoulder.

Symptoms may include:

  • Severe, sudden pain.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Fever, if inflamed or infected.

2)   Liver Conditions

The liver is positioned just below your right ribs, so it can be painful if it’s inflamed because of a condition like hepatitis or fatty liver disease. Pain can be dull or aching and it may be associated with jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), feeling very tired, or swelling.

3)   Right Kidney Issues

Complications in the right kidney, such as a kidney infection or a kidney stone may result to pain that can be felt under the ribs and on the back. Common related symptoms are fever, painful urination and change in the colour of urine.

4)   Digestive Tract Irritation

Acid reflux (GERD), gastritis and gas pain can ache under the ribs after eating. These causes tend to feel more like burning, bloating or pressure than sharp pain.

5)   Muscle and Rib Cage Problems

In some cases, localized pain that worsens with movement, deep breathing or touch may also be a sign of an injury such as an intercostal muscle strain (the muscles between the ribs), rib fractures or inflammation in the cartilage connecting one or more of your ribs to your breastbone (costochondritis).

6)   Lung and Pleural Disorders

Inflammation or infection of the lining of the lungs (pleurisy) and diseases such as pneumonia also can cause pain that travels below your ribs, particularly when coughing or breathing deeply.

Other Less Common Causes

Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can lead to upper abdominal pain that spreads to the right.

Hernia: It is a lump in the abdominal wall which can make it hurt to lift heavy objects or cough.

Shingles: A viral nerve infection can cause a burning sensation below the ribs, occasionally well in advance of any accompanying rash.

Symptoms That May Help to Determine the Cause

Symptoms That May Help to Determine the Cause

Different conditions can cause slightly different pain characteristics:

Types of Pain Possible Cause
Sharp and sudden Gallstones, kidney stones
Dull and aching Liver inflammation, gastritis
Worse with breathing/coughing Pleurisy, pneumonia, costochondritis
Pleurisy, pneumonia, costochondritis Gallbladder issues, kidney stones
Tender to touch Muscle strain

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

Most cases of right-sided rib pain aren’t emergencies, but you should seek urgent care or go to a 24/7 ER, like SilverLake ER, if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe pain that suddenly worsens.
  • Fever, chills, or signs of infection.
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
  • Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down.
  • Blood in urine or stools.
  • Difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, dizziness.
  • Pain following a traumatic injury.

These symptoms could signal a serious condition like gallbladder inflammation, kidney infection, pneumonia, or internal organ problems that require prompt medical attention.

Diagnostic Approach

To determine the cause of pain under your right ribs, a clinician may use:

  • Physical examination.
  • Blood tests.
  • Ultrasound or CT scans.
  • Urine analysis.

These help distinguish between gastrointestinal, liver, kidney, lung, or musculoskeletal causes and guide appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options Based on Cause

Gallbladder Pain

If gallstones are causing recurring episodes, surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) may be recommended. Acute inflammation may need antibiotics or hospital care.

Liver Disorders

Lifestyle changes, medications, or specialized care for conditions like fatty liver disease or hepatitis might be needed based on the specific diagnosis.

Kidney Issues

Kidney infections often require antibiotics, while kidney stones might need pain management, hydration, or procedures to break up or remove stones.

Digestive Irritation

Antacids, dietary changes (avoiding spicy or fatty foods), and medications for acid reflux or gastritis can help reduce symptoms of digestive discomfort.

Musculoskeletal Pain

Rest, heat or ice therapy, gentle stretching, and anti-inflammatory medication can help with muscle or cartilage-related pain.

Tips for Managing Mild Pain at Home

If a clinician has ruled out serious causes, you can often manage mild discomfort from gas, indigestion, or muscle strain with:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • Warm compresses.
  • Avoiding gas-producing foods.
  • Gentle movement and stretching.

If symptoms persist or worsen, follow up with a healthcare provider.

Take Away: What Pain On Right Side Under Ribs Mean

What Pain On Right Side Under Ribs Mean

Pain under your right ribs can stem from a range of conditions, from common digestive or muscular causes to urgent issues like gallbladder inflammation or kidney infection. Because this area contains multiple organs, a careful evaluation is often needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1)   What is the most common cause of right-side rib pain?

One of the most common causes is gallbladder issues like gallstones or inflammation, especially after eating fatty foods.

2)   Can gas pain feel like rib pain?

Yes, trapped gas or indigestion can cause sharp or dull pain under the right ribs that may be confused with other conditions.

3)   Could it be my liver?

Yes, liver inflammation, fatty liver disease, or other liver conditions can cause a dull ache or pressure under the ribs.

4)   Does rib pain always mean something serious?

Not always muscle strain, minor digestive discomfort, or gas can cause pain. But persistent, severe, or worsening pain should be evaluated.

5)   Can I visit SilverLake ER 24/7 for sudden right-side rib pain?

Yes. SilverLake ER in Pearland, TX is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can evaluate sudden or severe pain under your right ribs, perform imaging and labs, and provide immediate treatment for urgent conditions.