pain in lower left ribcage

[bushkin]

hi. im a 39 yr old male w/ a history of gastritus.my discomfort has shifted from the center of the stomach to the left side under the bottom of the rib cage.it fluctuates from a bloated,gas feeling,to a burning,sharp pain if i try to lift something heavy.coffee kills me,and everything i eat gives me gas.my bowl movements seem normal except occasional diareha.thanks for any and all advice.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Possible causes would be inflammation of the upper digestive tract, an ulcer, GERD, or pancreatitis.

I would suggest an upper GI series or upper endoscopy for further evaluation.  Tests for H Pylori (a bacteria associated with ulcers or inflammation) is advisable.  If negative, blood tests can be done to test for pancreatitis.  

If these tests are negative, further evaluation can be made with an abdominal CT scan as well as an ultrasound to evaluate the liver and gall bladder (which can atypically present to the left side).

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[kwag]

I have often read that if a person lacks sufficient hydrochloric acid that they have a tenderness on the left side just below the rib.  It is painful with palpation.  Try taking a digestive enzyme just before eating and see if that helps.  You can get these enzymes at health food stores.  Just tell them what you are experiencing and that you need an enzyme with betaine.