Pain under Ribs: What It Could Mean and How to Battle It Naturally

The rib cage is an essential natural protection that the body provides to vital organs. Pain in the area is something that most of us have experienced throughout our lives, meaning that it can sometimes get overlooked. While it can be just a temporary discomfort that does not indicate any serious issues, there is also the possibility of the pain pointing towards various conditions. Digestion problems, kidney stones, inflammation, injuries, even heart attacks or cancer can all be signalled through pain under the ribs.

Here are a few of the common causes and treatments. Keep in mind that this article is only meant to provide general information and, therefore, cannot replace medical advice.

Causes and Treatments

• Rib Damage

The least surprising cause of rib cage pain is that one of the ribs could be damaged. If you know that your ribcage sustained a powerful impact lately, go see a doctor as soon as possible. The longer an injury stays untreated, the higher is the chance for complications to appear. An ice pack is a good solution for relieving some of the pain temporarily.

• Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are notorious for the pain they cause below the ribs, both on your sides and back. These can appear due to several factors, from abnormally high amounts of calcium in a diet, to sedentarism, stress and not drinking enough fluids.

Natural ingredients are one of the best solutions for a first try: they are cheap, healthy and avoid many of the side effects that you can see with regular drugs or treatments. Omega-3 fatty acids are known as an excellent tool in preventing the formation of kidney stones.

Apple cider vinegar is also known to dissolve these stones due to its acetic acid. 2 teaspoons of vinegar in a glass of water should be consumed multiple times a day in order to get rid of the problem in time.

• Gallstones

Pain under your ribs, on the right side of your body, can be caused by problems with your gallbladder. The bile duct can become blocked by stones that are formed either as a result of a diet high in cholesterol or a lack of bile salts in your body.

Drink juice from half a lemon mixed with water every morning to find relief. Apple cider vinegar works just as well.

• Heart attack

Pain under the left side of your rib cage can be a sign of a heart attack. Nausea and difficulty breathing are other common symptoms. Pain will usually extend to areas such as arms, neck or back as well. Consult a doctor immediately if you suspect you may be having a heart attack.

As a natural prevention, a balanced diet and lifestyle are key. Keep the cholesterol levels low, exercise, do not smoke, be moderate with alcohol consumption and get proper rest.

• Liver disease

Obesity, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, smoking and using too many medications can lead to liver disease, which is sometimes signalled by pain under the right side of your rib cage.

With the numerous other possible causes, knowing your situation is the best advice we can give. It is only then that you can follow the proper treatment. Medical checkups are essential whenever the pain under your rib cage persists.