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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What does consistent pain under my right ribcage mean? Does this have connections to SLE?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Palm Bay, FL

I've been in a flare for a couple days now but I'm experiencing a sharp and uncomfortable pain on my right side under my ribcage. Does anyone else experience this too?

February 5
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone experiencing sharp pain under their right ribcage during a lupus flare, with many sharing they had experienced... Read more

Members rallied around someone experiencing sharp pain under their right ribcage during a lupus flare, with many sharing they had experienced similar pain and offering possible explanations based on their own diagnoses. Several members identified costochondritis as a likely culprit, while others shared their experiences with pleurisy, slipping rib syndrome, connective tissue disorders, and even chronic liver disease discovered through ultrasound. A recurring theme was the urgent encouragement to see a doctor for proper evaluation, as the pain could stem from inflammation of the ribs, lungs, or internal organs, with members offering solidarity and practical comfort measures like heat and CBD oil while awaiting medical answers.

A MyLupusTeam Member

So sorry for your pain...I have had the same for quite a while now and the doctor ordered an ultrasound of my liver and it came back that I have a coarsened liver with chronic liver disease. Mine hurts worse after I eat also. I see a hepatologist (liver specialist) on Wednesday. My liver enzymes are always elevated also. I hope this isn't your case too. Keep us informed. Good luck to you.

February 8
MyLupusTeam

What could be causing your sharp pain under the right ribcage during a lupus flare?

Yes, this type of pain can definitely be connected to lupus, and you're not alone in experiencing it. Many MyLupusTeam members report similar rib pain during flares.

Several lupus-related conditions could cause pain under your right ribcage:

* Show Full Answer

What could be causing your sharp pain under the right ribcage during a lupus flare?

Yes, this type of pain can definitely be connected to lupus, and you're not alone in experiencing it. Many MyLupusTeam members report similar rib pain during flares.

Several lupus-related conditions could cause pain under your right ribcage:

* Organ inflammation - Your immune system may be attacking organs like your liver or pancreas, causing swelling and pain. A MyLupusTeam member mentioned getting rib pain when their pancreas swells up.

* Costochondritis - This is inflammation of the joints connecting your ribs to your breastbone, which is more common in people with lupus. The pain typically increases when you cough, sneeze, or take deep breaths.

* Spleen or liver inflammation - While spleen pain is usually on the left side, liver inflammation could cause right-sided discomfort. One member shared that both their spleen and liver get inflamed during flares.

* Lung conditions - About half of people with lupus develop lung-related problems like pleurisy, which can cause chest and rib pain.

Since you're currently in a flare, it's important to tell your doctor about this new symptom. They can determine whether it's related to your lupus activity or needs immediate attention, especially if the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or nausea.

February 5
A MyLupusTeam Member

I get that too at times, my pulmonologist says it’s usually inflammation in the rib cage or the lining of the lungs for me.

February 19
A MyLupusTeam Member

Hello
I’m sorry for your pain. I have had the exact pain for over two years. I was diagnosed with Tietz and chostocondritis. Unfortunately at the time I didn’t know I had an autoimmune disorder and it was diagnosed as slipping rib syndrome. I had a rib resection on my left 10th rib. Then told to check if I had connective tissue disorder. That ended up being the cause.
This has caused more problems. Heat helps along with cbd oil on the ribs. I wish you well. I know this is a very uncomfortable pain. Sending positive vibes

February 6
A MyLupusTeam Member

Dear Camille,

It could be any of the things that AI mentioned. If you still feel badly in the morning, please contact your doctor. I have had both pleurisy and costochondritis before and they were both painful. The latter caused similar pain to yours. Please keep us updated. 💜🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

February 5

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