I have recurring sharp pain under the rib cage right side. It has been happening for years. When it first happened, I was 24 years old the doctor told me it was because my rib cage was smaller than my belly; I am 69 years old, my belly has remained the same size most of my life. I have been exercising lately and it has shrunk a bit. Today the pain is back -- very sharp and localized just where the ribs meet the belly.
Hi, Thanks for your query. The pain at the bottom center of the rib cage on the right side could be due to a gall bladder stone, renal infection or a stone if the pain does not seem to be muscular in nature. This can be ruled out after getting an ultrasound scan done. If the pain is aggravated with deep breathing or coughing then a rib injury or a muscular sprain is likely. The other causes that need to be ruled out include lung infections like pleuritic. Stopping smoking might help in reducing the symptoms do hope that you have found something helpful, and I will be glad to answer any further query. Take care