Pain Under Left Rib Cage: What’s Causing It and What to Do

Discover why gallbladder sludge may be behind unexplained pain in the upper left abdomen and learn how promoting bile flow can help reduce discomfort and support overall digestive health.

What causes pain under left rib cage?

Upper left abdominal pain can be caused by a range of issues, including a rib fracture, spleen enlargement, stomach ulcers, gastritis, or chronic inflammation affecting the left kidney. 

Stabbing pain under the left ribs can also be linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. These conditions can cause inflammation and irritation in the intestines, triggering severe pain that can radiate into the upper abdomen. 

However, in some cases, intense left side pain located beneath the rib cage can be caused by impaired bile flow affecting the delicate duct system connecting the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and small intestines.

Poor bile flow can lead to the formation of bile sludge and gallstones, which may block the ducts that deliver bile and digestive enzymes into the intestines. 

When these ducts are obstructed, digestive enzymes become trapped within the pancreas, where they can begin to digest the pancreatic tissue itself. This can lead to inflammation and pancreatitis, which can trigger intense pain in the upper left abdomen.

Watch the video below to learn more about the causes of left rib pain. 

What is bile sludge, and why does it matter?

Bile is a vitally important fluid that plays a crucial role in digestive health, fat absorption, liver cell function, detoxification pathways, and microbial balance within the digestive tract. 

It contains bilirubin, cholesterol crystals, calcium salts, and mucins, along with bile salts that maintain bile’s fluidity and prevent it from getting excessively thick.

Bile sludge forms when bile becomes highly concentrated and thickens into a sludge-like consistency, typically caused by a lack of bile salts or poor gallbladder motility.

Reduced bile flow can impair digestive functions and the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins, increasing the risk of malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies. 

Sluggish bile flow can also lead to gallstones and gallbladder inflammation, also known as cholecystitis, which may require gallbladder removal surgery in severe cases. 

“The importance of optimal bile flow for overall digestive health is often overlooked,” explains Dr. Berg. “Yet, without this vital fluid, the body may struggle to maintain balanced digestive processes, which can affect nutrient levels and trigger systemic health issues.”

What causes bile sludge?

Gallbladder sludge can result from various causes, often driven by a mix of dietary habits, liver dysfunction, sluggish gallbladder activity, and hormonal imbalances.

A low-fat diet can contribute to bile sludge by reducing gallbladder contractions needed to release bile, leading to the stagnation and thickening of bile over time.

In addition, a study published in Gastroenterology Review found that metabolic imbalance linked to a high-carb diet significantly increases the risk of gallstones. This highligSharp pain under the left rib cage can be caused by broken or bruised ribs, kidney stones, or spleen issues.

However, persistent left rib cage pain with no apparent underlying cause may be linked to poor gallbladder function, chronic pancreatitis, or bile acid deficiency.

hts a potential link between carbohydrate and sugar consumption and the development of bile sludge. 

Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy, menopause, or with certain medications, can also disrupt bile flow, increasing the likelihood of bile sludge development.

In addition, gut microbes play a crucial role in recycling bile salts, and a lack of beneficial gut bacteria can increase the risk of bile sludge, gallbladder issues, and poor digestion.

Symptoms of bile sludge

Bile sludge can block the bile duct system, causing bile to back up into the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. This can lead to poor digestion, gallbladder inflammation, and liver issues, which can manifest in a wide range of symptoms.

Here are common signs and symptoms of bile sludge:

• Abdominal pain

• Pain in the left rib cage area

• Changes in bowel movements  

• Right shoulder pain 

• Difficulty digesting fatty foods

• Pale colored stool 

• Fatigue

• Poor detoxification

• Chest discomfort

• Vomiting and nausea 

• Bile reflux

• Fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies 

In some cases, bile sludge can back up into the liver and impair normal liver cell function. This can increase the risk of liver disease and exacerbate conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, potentially leading to serious health issues.

The best remedy for pain under left rib cage 

Purified bile salts are among the best natural remedies for bile sludge-related pain under the left rib cage. 

Taking a bile salt supplement can help increase bile acid concentrations in the body, which keeps bile soluble, promotes optimal bile flow, and reduces the risk of sludge formation and gallstones.

Bile salts can help prevent blockages by keeping the ducts connecting the pancreas with the small intestines clear. This allows for the proper release of digestive enzymes, alleviating pancreatic irritation and inflammation associated with bile stagnation. 

Supplementing with bile salts may be especially beneficial for individuals with sluggish fat digestion, fatty liver disease, and those who have had their gallbladder removed, as they’re at increased risk of bile acid deficiency and impaired bile flow. 

Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) is a bile acid derivative known for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in stimulating bile flow. 

Research published in Cells found that TUDCA can help improve bile flow and reduce the risk of bile buildup, which may prevent the formation of bile sludge and gallstones.

Tips to help increase bile

In addition to taking bile salts, there are other steps you can take to promote gallbladder health and liver function, which are crucial aspects of promoting optimal bile flow. 

Here are three ways to naturally increase bile production.

1. Avoid a low-fat diet

Dietary fat intake triggers gallbladder contraction and bile release while slowing down digestion. This allows bile acids and digestive enzymes to break down and digest fatty acids. 

Due to the essential role of fats in stimulating gallbladder activity, individuals on low-fat or low-cholesterol diets are at increased risk of poor bile flow and associated health issues.

While it may seem counterintuitive, a nutritious high-fat diet such as Healthy Keto® is an excellent dietary pattern to stimulate regular bile flow, which helps lower the risk of bile sludge formation.  

2. Consume plenty of choline-rich foods 

Evidence published in the Journal of Lipid Research found that choline plays a critical role in maintaining bile flow and helps lower the risk of bile sludge and gallstones. 

The authors suggest that choline is a precursor to phosphatidylcholine. This major component of bile is needed to keep cholesterol soluble, which supports bile flow and overall gallbladder function.

Some of the best choline-rich foods include:

• Egg yolks

• Organ meats

• Chicken breast 

• Salmon 

• Cauliflower 

• Broccoli 

• Brussel sprouts 

• Peanuts 

3. Avoid refined vegetable oils 

Refined vegetable oils, such as soybean, corn, canola, and sunflower oils, are highly processed and contain excessive concentrations of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids. 

These oils not only contribute to inflammation but may also lead to imbalanced bile composition and reduced gallbladder motility, all of which can increase the risk of gallbladder sludge. 

To promote digestive health and increase bile flow, opt for minimally refined, cold-pressed oils such as olive, avocado, and coconut oil.

Safety and side effects of bile salts

Bile salts are generally safe and well tolerated when used appropriately, and it’s recommended to take bile salt supplements on an empty stomach to help clear gallbladder sludge and potential blockages. 

While bile salts have impressive health benefits, they can trigger side effects such as diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal cramping in sensitive individuals. 

In addition, in people with certain conditions, such as hypothyroidism, Crohn’s disease, or celiac disease, bile salts might worsen symptoms or trigger flare-ups due to their effects on digestive function and hormonal balance. 

If you are planning to incorporate bile salts into your wellness routine, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they’re suitable for your specific health needs, especially if you have underlying health issues. 

When to talk to your doctor

Although discomfort in the upper left abdomen may be related to poor bile flow, there are other potential underlying causes of pain beneath the left rib cage. 

If you experience persistent or worsening pain or develop symptoms such as jaundice, fever, or unexplained weight loss, it’s crucial to consult a doctor to rule out a kidney infection, liver disease, or other potentially serious health issues. 

A medical evaluation and blood tests can help identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and help guide appropriate treatment protocols.

In some cases, intense left rib pain may be indicative of an enlarged or ruptured spleen or a heart attack, especially if symptoms are accompanied by sharp chest pain, which requires immediate medical attention.  

Key takeaways

Unexplained pain under the left rib cage may be linked to poor bile flow, which can lead to impaired digestive enzyme release and pancreatitis.  

Addressing stagnant bile flow with purified bile salts helps promote optimal gallbladder and pancreatic function and may alleviate pain and inflammation linked to bile sludge. 

In addition, you can enhance bile flow by following a nutritious, high-fat diet such as Healthy Keto, consuming plenty of choline-rich foods, and avoiding refined vegetable oils, which can alter bile composition and contribute to gallbladder sludge. 

FAQ

1. What causes pain under left rib cage?

Pain under the left rib cage can be linked to an enlarged spleen or bruised ribs. However, in some cases, upper left abdominal pain can indicate an irritated or inflamed pancreas. 

Poor gallbladder function or bile acid deficiency can cause bile sludge, which may block the release of digestive enzymes from the pancreas. This buildup can lead to enzymes digesting pancreatic tissue, causing discomfort or pain beneath the left rib cage.

2. What is the best remedy for pain under left rib cage?

Purified bile salts are one of the best natural remedies for pain linked to bile sludge or sluggish gallbladder function. Bile salts help keep bile soluble, thereby promoting optimal bile flow and preventing potential blockages that can contribute to an irritated or inflamed pancreas.  

3. When should I worry about pain under my left rib cage?

It’s crucial to seek medical care if you experience sudden or severe pain under your left rib cage, especially if accompanied by difficulty breathing, dizziness, or chest pain. These symptoms could indicate a ruptured spleen or heart attack, both of which are medical emergencies that require immediate attention.

4. Can gas cause pain under your left rib cage?

Yes, gas can cause pain under your left rib cage, often due to trapped gas in the stomach or small intestines. This can put pressure on muscles and organs located in the upper left abdomen, leading to discomfort and pain.  

5. Can gallbladder pain be on the left side under ribs?

While gallbladder pain is typically located on the right side of the abdomen, gallbladder issues can irritate or inflame the pancreas, leading to discomfort or pain that can be felt on the left side of the upper abdomen. 

Sources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10626383/ 

2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6952947/ 

3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12837851/