Left side rib/back

[worriedmomupnorth]

I've had a mild ache in my lower left rib area, sometimes in my mid back for a few weeks. One rib seems to be popping if I press on it which I don't recall happening before. I phoned the doctors office and they said to wait 1-2 weeks, take Advil and see how it goes. Is my doc being too casual about this? Of course I started googling and diagnosed myself with everything from slipping rib syndrome to pancreatic cancer.

[worriedmomupnorth]

Thank you for your reply.  It is definitely not a sharp pain, and not constant either.  I would describe it more as discomfort than pain.  I don't seem to have any GI issues, bowel and urinary habits are fine.  I'm nervous to take NSAIDs in case the problem is related to something that would get worse.  

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hi, if there is tenderness when touched, then it could be due to trauma or a superficial infection of the skin. The other causes could be gastritis, peptic ulcer disease and GERD. Disorders of the spleen and colon could also cause pain. Kidney disorders too produce colicky and sharp pain. Sometimes anxiety with flatulence can cause this pain. If the pain persists, you will need to consult your primary care physician for proper evaluation of pain and therapy. Regards.