This article explores common causes of rib pain, including injuries and medical conditions like osteoporosis, pleurisy, and lung cancer. Recognizing symptoms aids in accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. It emphasizes consulting healthcare professionals for personalized care, highlighting the importance of understanding various symptoms associated with rib discomfort.

Rib discomfort can result from injuries or health issues, each presenting different signs that aid in diagnosis. Recognizing these symptoms helps determine the underlying condition affecting the ribs.

Here are seven common medical causes of rib pain, along with their characteristic symptoms and severity:

Broken Ribs

A common cause of sharp pain following trauma, potentially accompanied by dizziness, swelling, bruising, and limited movement. Bone deformities might be visible.

Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)

A blood disorder caused by genetic mutation, sometimes leading to rib discomfort due to swelling, especially around the upper ribs and abdomen, with symptoms varying across disease stages.

Metastatic Lung Cancer

Advanced lung cancer can cause rib pain through persistent coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, and breathing issues. Early detection of these signs is vital.

SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)

An autoimmune disorder that attacks healthy tissues, resulting in fatigue, joint swelling, inflammation, and deformities that may affect the ribs.

Osteoporosis

A condition marked by weakened bones, increasing fracture risk and leading to rib pain. Recognizing early symptoms allows timely intervention.

Pleurisy

Inflammation of the lung lining causes sharp chest pain, shallow breathing, muscle aches, and joint discomfort, often pressing on the ribs.

Costochondritis

Inflammation of the cartilage connecting ribs to the breastbone results in chest and rib pain, varying in severity; mild cases often resolve without treatment.

Note: This article offers general health insights and should not replace professional medical advice. For proper diagnosis and treatment, consult qualified healthcare providers. Our content aims for educational purposes only.