- 7/24 Live Call Center
Last Updated on November 26, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
Understand hernia by ribcage causes, symptoms, and how to treat this uncommon but serious condition.
Discovering a lump or discomfort under your ribs can be alarming. It’s important to understand its cause for peace of mind. A hernia near the rib cage happens when fat or tissue pushes through a weak area. This causes a bulge and pain that gets worse when you strain, cough, or lift.
Medical organization says an epigastric hernia is between the breastbone and belly button. Medical organization also points out that a lump between the ribcage above the stomach could mean different health issues, like a hernia.
It’s key to know the causes, symptoms, and treatment for a hernia under the rib cage. Liv Hospital offers trusted, patient-focused solutions for complex hernias with advanced care.
To understand hernias near the ribcage, we need to know about the body’s anatomy and where weaknesses can happen. A hernia is when a weak spot in the peritoneum lets a bulge form. This can cause pain and discomfort. Medical News Today says this can happen for many reasons, like being born with a weakness or getting one later.
Hernias near the ribcage are also known as epigastric or upper abdominal wall hernias. They happen when fat or tissue bulges through a weak spot between the lower rib cage and belly button. This area is more likely to have problems because of the muscles and how they can get strained.
A hernia by the ribcage is when fat or tissue bulges through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. This area includes the rib cage, muscles, and the peritoneum. If these parts are weak, a hernia can form.
The abdominal wall has layers like skin, muscles, and the peritoneum. A hernia happens when there’s a hole in these layers, letting things bulge out.
There are several names for hernias near the ribcage, like epigastric hernia and upper abdominal wall hernia. Knowing these terms is key for getting the right treatment.
Here’s a table with common terms for hernias near the ribcage:
| Term | Description |
| Epigastric Hernia | A hernia in the upper belly, between the navel and the lower chest. |
| Upper Abdominal Wall Hernia | A general term for hernias in the upper belly. |
| Rib Cage Hernia | A common term for hernias near or under the rib cage. |
These terms are often used the same way, but they point to specific locations and types of hernias. Knowing the right term is important for proper treatment.
It’s important to know about the different hernias near the ribcage. This knowledge helps doctors diagnose and treat them well. Each hernia type has its own signs and symptoms.
Epigastric hernias happen in the area between the navel and the lower chest. They occur when the abdominal wall weakens, letting fatty tissue or other things bulge out. Symptoms include a bulge or lump in this area, which can hurt, mainly when you strain or lift heavy.
The Medical organization says a lump above the stomach might mean a hernia. If you have symptoms that don’t go away or get worse, you should see a doctor.
Diaphragmatic hernias happen when the diaphragm weakens or tears. This lets abdominal organs move into the chest. Symptoms include trouble breathing, chest pain, and stomach problems.
“Diaphragmatic hernias can be life-threatening if not properly managed. Prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent complications.”
Intercostal hernias are rare and happen between the ribs. They can be caused by injury, birth defects, or other muscle weaknesses. Symptoms include a bulge or swelling between the ribs, pain, and discomfort, mainly when you cough or strain.
| Type of Hernia | Location | Common Symptoms |
| Epigastric Hernia | Between navel and lower chest | Bulge or lump, pain when straining |
| Diaphragmatic Hernia | Diaphragm | Difficulty breathing, chest pain, GI issues |
| Intercostal Hernia | Between the ribs | Visible bulge, pain when coughing or straining |
Each hernia near the ribcage is different and needs its own treatment plan. Knowing these differences helps doctors treat them right.
Knowing why hernias happen near the ribcage is key to preventing and treating them. Hernias in this area can come from being born with weak spots, physical strain, or other factors.
Being born with weak spots in the abdominal wall is a big reason for hernias near the ribcage. Some people are more likely to get hernias because of this. Doctors say it’s often due to genetics or how the body develops.
Key congenital factors include:
Physical strain and pressure on the abdominal wall also cause hernias near the ribcage. Doing heavy lifting, bending, or straining can put too much pressure on the wall, leading to a hernia.
Common activities that may contribute to physical strain include:
Other things can also lead to hernias near the ribcage. These include being overweight, having had surgery before, and certain health conditions.
| Factor | Description | Impact |
| Obesity | Excess body weight increases pressure on the abdominal wall | Higher risk of hernia development |
| Previous Surgeries | Surgical scars can weaken the abdominal wall | Increased susceptibility to hernias |
| Medical Conditions | Certain conditions can strain or weaken abdominal tissues | Potential for hernia occurrence |
By knowing these causes, people can take steps to prevent hernias and get help if they happen. The Medical organization says catching symptoms early can make treatment more effective.
Knowing what can lead to hernias near the rib cage is important. It helps in preventing and treating them. Different things can cause these hernias, affecting people in different ways.
The chance of getting a hernia near the rib cage changes with age and gender. Medical News Today says the risk goes up with age. But, hernias can also happen in children with weak abdominal walls.
Both men and women can get hernias near the rib cage. They can happen on either side.
Being overweight or having big weight changes can lead to hernias near the rib cage. Extra weight puts more strain on muscles and tissues. This can cause weaknesses that lead to hernias.
What you’ve been through medically and past surgeries can also affect your risk. Past surgeries, for example, can lead to complications like incisional hernias.
By knowing these risk factors, you can take steps to lower your chance of getting a hernia near the rib cage. It’s important to manage these risks early to avoid complications.
It’s important to know the signs of hernias under the ribs. These symptoms can show up in different ways. They might mean you need to see a doctor right away.
People with hernias under the ribs might notice a lump or bulge. They might also feel pain, which gets worse when they cough, lift, or bend. Sometimes, the lump can be pushed back, but other times it can’t.
Common physical symptoms include:
The pain from hernias under the ribs can be different for everyone. It might be sharp or a dull ache that spreads. Activities that put pressure on the abdomen can make the pain worse.
Pain patterns may include:
| Pain Characteristic | Description |
| Sharp Pain | Often linked to specific activities or movements |
| Dull Ache | Can be constant or come and go, based on position or activity |
| Radiating Pain | May spread to the back, shoulder, or down to the abdomen |
Not all hernias under the ribs are emergencies, but some symptoms are. If a hernia gets stuck or cut off, it can cause serious problems. These include bowel obstruction or ischemia.
Emergency symptoms include:
Spotting these symptoms early is key. It helps get the right care fast and avoid serious issues.
It’s important to know the differences between right and left side rib cage hernias. This knowledge helps in managing and treating them. Hernias in this area can be tricky because of the rib cage’s complex anatomy.
The right and left sides of the rib cage have different anatomies. This affects the types of hernias that can occur. The right side is more likely to have certain hernias because of the liver’s influence on the diaphragm. The left side might have different types of hernias due to the stomach and spleen’s position.
These anatomical differences also impact the complications of hernias. For example, right-sided hernias might involve the liver or gallbladder. Left-sided hernias could affect the stomach or spleen.
Symptoms of rib cage hernias can differ based on their location. Hernias on the right side may cause pain or discomfort that radiates to the right shoulder or back. Left-sided hernias might cause pain that goes to the left shoulder or back.
Medical News Today says hernias can happen on either side of the rib cage. Symptoms like pain or discomfort that gets worse with movement or activity are common. But, the specific pain and symptoms can hint at the hernia’s location and type.
“The location of a hernia near the rib cage can significantly influence its symptoms and complications, underscoring the need for a tailored approach to diagnosis and treatment.”
It’s possible for multiple hernias to occur at once. Quick action is needed if complications arise. Healthcare providers must understand the differences between right and left side rib cage hernias to create effective treatment plans.
Doctors use many tools to find hernias near the rib cage. It’s key to get the right diagnosis for the right treatment.
A physical check is often the first step. Doctors use different methods to see if there’s a hernia.
Palpation is a common method. The doctor feels the area around the rib cage for any odd feelings or tenderness.
They might also ask you to cough or strain. This can make a hernia bulge out, helping doctors see it.
The Medical organization says CT or MRI scans can help find hernias near the rib cage. These scans show detailed pictures of inside structures. They help confirm if there’s a hernia and how big it is.
CT scans are great for seeing the body’s layout and finding hernias or other issues.
MRI scans give very clear images. They help tell different types of hernias apart from other problems.
It’s important to rule out other conditions that might seem like a hernia. Doctors look at many possible causes of symptoms.
By looking at symptoms and using physical checks and scans, doctors can find the right diagnosis. Then, they can plan the best treatment.
Knowing when to see a doctor is key for those with hernia symptoms near the rib cage. Hernias in this spot can cause serious problems if not treated quickly.
Some symptoms mean you need to see a doctor right away. Medical News Today says to get help fast if you have sharp pain, nausea, vomiting, or trouble with bowel movements. Severe pain is a big warning sign that needs quick attention.
Other signs to watch for include:
If you notice any of these, get medical help fast. Doctors say quick action can stop serious issues.
Before your doctor visit, gather info about your symptoms. Writing down when they started, how bad they are, and what makes them better or worse is useful.
Important things to talk about with your doctor include:
Being ready will help your doctor understand your situation better. This leads to a correct diagnosis and a good treatment plan.
“The key to effective treatment is early diagnosis and intervention,” doctors say. By knowing when to get help and being ready for your visit, you can tackle your hernia effectively.
Managing hernias near the rib cage involves watching them and managing pain. This is key for small, symptom-free hernias.
For small hernias without big symptoms, waiting and watching is a good plan. The Medical organization says regular check-ups are important. They help see if the hernia is getting bigger or if symptoms change.
Doctors do physical checks and might use imaging to look at the hernia. They also teach patients about lifestyle changes and when to seek help.
For hernias that hurt, there are ways to manage pain. Doctors often start with over-the-counter pain meds.
They might also suggest physical therapy or changes in lifestyle. It’s important for patients to work with their doctors to find the best pain relief.
Pain management is key in caring for hernias under the ribs. It can make life better for those affected.
Hernias near the rib cage might need surgery. There are different ways to fix them. Surgery is usually needed for big or painful hernias to stop more problems.
Open hernia repair is a traditional method. The surgeon makes one big cut to see and fix the hernia. It’s good for big or complex hernias near the rib cage. They use mesh to keep the area strong and prevent more hernias.
Laparoscopic surgery is like keyhole surgery. It uses small cuts for a camera and tools. This method is less invasive and can lead to faster recovery. It works well for smaller, less complicated hernias.
Mesh is often used to strengthen the area. Mesh repairs can be done open or laparoscopic. But, some people might not need mesh. The choice depends on the hernia’s size, location, and the patient’s health.
The Medical organization says the choice of surgery depends on many things. These include the hernia’s size and location, the patient’s health, and the surgeon’s skill. Knowing about these options helps patients make better choices.
After hernia surgery, patients must carefully follow the recovery process. A good recovery depends on following post-operative instructions and knowing the recovery timeline.
The first hours after surgery are key for a smooth recovery. Patients are watched in the recovery room for any immediate issues. The Medical organization says patients might feel pain, discomfort, and swelling at the surgery site. These can be managed with pain meds and rest.
The recovery time varies based on the surgery type and the patient’s health. Most patients can get back to normal in a few weeks. But, it’s vital to stick to the surgeon’s recovery plan.
Following activity restrictions is key during recovery. Patients should not do heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities. This helps prevent complications and aids in healing. The exact rules depend on the surgery type and the surgeon’s advice.
Key guidelines to follow:
By sticking to these guidelines and understanding the recovery, patients can have a smooth and successful recovery after hernia surgery.
It’s important to know about hernias near the rib cage for the right diagnosis and treatment. Hernias by the ribcage can happen for many reasons, like being born with a weakness or getting hurt. It’s key to notice the signs and symptoms, like pain and discomfort, to get help fast.
Places like Medical organization and Medical organization say getting medical help quickly is important if you see signs of trouble. Knowing the causes, risks, and treatment options helps patients recover well and avoid more problems. Whether it’s a hernia under the right rib or on the rib cage, seeing a doctor is a must.
Learning about hernias by the ribcage helps people take care of their health. Knowing the risks and how to prevent them can lower the chance of getting a hernia near the rib cage. If you think you might have a hernia under your ribs, see a doctor for the right check-up and treatment.
A hernia by the ribcage happens when fat or tissue bulges through a weak spot. This weak spot is between the lower rib cage and belly button. It often causes a bulge and pain.
Yes, it’s possible to have a hernia under your ribs. It can be caused by a weak spot in the abdominal wall or other factors.
Symptoms of a hernia near the rib cage include a noticeable lump and discomfort. You might also feel severe pain, mostly when straining, coughing, or lifting.
To diagnose a hernia near the rib cage, a doctor will do a physical exam. They might also use imaging studies. This helps rule out other conditions.
Treatment for a hernia by the ribcage can be conservative or surgical. Small, asymptomatic hernias might be monitored. But, for others, surgery is needed. This can be open repair, laparoscopic techniques, or mesh or non-mesh repairs.
In some cases, small, asymptomatic hernias under the ribs can be managed without surgery. Regular check-ups are needed to monitor the hernia.
Risks of a hernia near the rib cage include severe pain and trouble passing stool. If left untreated, there could be more serious complications.
To prevent a hernia by the ribcage, keep a healthy weight. Avoid heavy lifting. Also, manage chronic coughing or straining.
Yes, hernias on the left and right sides under the ribs can differ. They have different anatomy and symptoms.
After hernia surgery, the immediate post-operative period is key. There’s a long-term recovery timeline. You’ll need to follow activity restrictions and guidelines for a smooth recovery.
Yes, you’ll need to follow specific activity restrictions after hernia surgery. This ensures proper healing and minimizes complications.
Yes, obesity increases the risk of a hernia near the rib cage. Excess weight strains the abdominal wall.
Andrews, S., et al. (2013). Gallstone size e related to the incidence of post-cholecystectomy retained bile duct stones. Surgery Journal, 5(3), 143-147. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1743919113000484
