What could cause sharp, stabbing pain below the left ribs?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 18 years old and my height is 155 cm. I got severe pain under my ribs on the left side. It is a sharp, stabbing pain. I am taking contraceptive pills and bowel medicines. Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I would like to know if there are any other symptoms like difficulty breathing or dizziness. Does the pain radiate? Even though you are young since you are on oral contraceptives, we need to consider a few things. It could just be costochondritis if it increases with breathing or movement or it could also be a muscle strain if it increases with both breathing and movement. But if movement and breathing do not affect it, then it is on the inside. Sometimes dyspepsia can present this way too. If you have any other symptoms that I asked above or if it is not affected by movement please notify me. If symptoms worsen or you develop difficulty breathing please go to the ER (emergency room). Kindly give a detailed report of your symptoms so I can suggest you better. I hope this helps you.

Thank you.