Rib Cage Pain

Rib Cage Pain

Rib cage pain is a common complaint with various causes, ranging from minor injuries to serious conditions like lung cancer. The pain may be sudden and sharp or dull and aching.

Possible causes of rib cage pain include:

• Injury: Broken, bruised, or fractured ribs, pulled muscles.
• Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage connecting ribs to the sternum.
• Infection: Upper respiratory infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, or pleurisy.
• Lung cancer: Can cause chest pain, especially when breathing deeply.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition causing widespread body pain.
• Pulmonary embolism: A blood clot in the lungs, causing shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain.

If you experience rib cage pain, especially with severe symptoms like shortness of breath or coughing up blood, seek medical attention immediately.