When should you see a doctor for persistent pain under the left/right ribs?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Persistent pain under the ribs is a symptom that should not be ignored. Ongoing or unexplained rib pain can point to a range of underlying conditions—from muscle strain to issues involving the liver, gallbladder, lungs, or digestive system. Because the cause isn't always obvious, consulting a healthcare provider is the safest way to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Before booking an appointment, it helps to have a clearer picture of what might be going on. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify possible causes based on your specific symptoms, guide you on how urgently to seek care, and prepare you with useful information to share with your doctor. Taking a few minutes now can save time, reduce anxiety, and help you take confident next steps toward feeling better.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn what may be causing rib pain Find out if rib pain needs care Discover if rib pain could be serious See OTC options for rib pain relief Find a doctor for rib pain Understand medically proven rib pain home care Check if persistent rib pain needs care

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Explanation

Persistent pain under the ribs can be concerning and may have different causes. It is important to see a doctor to determine the reason for the pain.

Possible Causes of Rib Pain:

Painful Rib Syndrome: This is a condition where the pain is often felt in the upper abdomen or lower chest. It can last for a long time and may need medical attention to manage it effectively.
Twelfth Rib Syndrome: This occurs when the last rib irritates nearby tissues, causing pain. Seeing a doctor can help in diagnosing and treating this condition.
Cyriax Syndrome: This is another condition that can cause rib pain, often seen in athletes. Professional evaluation is necessary to address the symptoms and prevent further issues.

If the pain is severe, affects your daily activities, or is accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty breathing, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. To help identify what might be causing your symptoms, you can start by taking a free symptom checker test before your appointment. They can perform tests and recommend treatments to help you feel better.

(References)

Scott EM, & Scott BB. (1993). Painful rib syndrome--a review of 76 cases. Gut, 8344569.
Cranfield KA, Buist RJ, Nandi PR, & Baranowski AP. (1997). The twelfth rib syndrome. Journal of pain and symptom management, 9114637.
Panka CT, & Tchebegna PY. (2020). Cyriax syndrome in a young male professional soccer player. South African journal of sports medicine, 36818991.

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