Pain Under the Left Rib – Stomach, Pancreas or Gas? What Tests Reveal
Dr Lauren Holland • Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
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Pain under the left rib is a common reason patients seek urgent testing in London. Many describe a sharp, aching or uncomfortable feeling below the left side of the chest, especially after eating, drinking alcohol, deep breathing or exercising. While gas or indigestion can cause brief discomfort, persistent left-sided rib pain can indicate stomach inflammation, pancreatic strain, spleen enlargement, bowel irritation or infection.
Clinically, we see this symptom often linked to poor digestion, heavy meals, alcohol consumption, vitamin deficiency, inflammation or post-viral changes. Blood testing helps determine whether the cause is muscular or internal. This guide explains the key causes and the most useful tests at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre.
Why Left Rib Pain Happens
Left-sided pain can originate from:
- stomach
- pancreas
- spleen
- colon
- muscles
- ribs
- nerves
Common causes include:
Symptoms That Occur with Left Rib Pain
Patients often report:
- tightness or pressure
- bloating or gas
- nausea after eating
- pain radiating to the back
- pain after alcohol
- upper abdominal heaviness
- fatigue
- indigestion
- loose stools
- sharp pain on breathing
- pain worse when lying down
Patterns help identify the organ involved.
When Left Rib Pain Is Serious
Seek testing if you experience:
- vomiting
- fever
- pain after alcohol
- severe pain spreading to the back
- yellowing of the eyes
- blood in stools
- pain lasting longer than 24 – 48 hours
- dizziness or faintness
These may indicate pancreatic or stomach inflammation.
Risk Factors for Left Rib Pain in London
You may be more likely to develop this symptom if you:
- drink alcohol
- eat heavy or fatty foods
- experience high stress
- sleep irregularly
- take certain medications
- have low vitamin D
- recently had a viral illness
- have a history of gastritis or reflux
- have bloating or IBS
These patterns are extremely common among Londoners.
What Blood Tests Reveal About Left Rib Pain
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, the following tests help identify the cause.
Pancreatic Enzymes (Amylase & Lipase)
Essential for left-sided pain, especially if severe or after alcohol.
Raised levels may indicate:
- pancreatic irritation
- digestive enzyme imbalance
- duct blockage
Symptoms:
- pain to the back
- nausea
- pain after meals
Liver Function Test (LFT)
Useful when pain is linked to alcohol or fatty meals.
Helps detect:
- bile flow issues
- inflammation
- gallbladder strain
CRP (Inflammation Marker)
Detects inflammation in:
- pancreas
- stomach
- spleen
- abdominal organs
Full Blood Count (FBC)
Important for:
- infection
- anaemia
- post-viral changes
Vitamin D
Low levels increase muscle and rib pain, especially in winter.
HbA1c (Blood Sugar Stability)
Useful when pain appears with:
- fatigue
- nausea
- heaviness after meals
Vitamin B12 & Folate
Low levels contribute to stomach irritation and fatigue.
Wellness Profile
Ideal for unclear or multi-symptom cases.
Includes:
- pancreatic enzymes
- liver function
- vitamins
- minerals
- thyroid
- FBC
- CRP
- HbA1c
Which MDC Profiles Are Best?
Symptom – Test Matching Table
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Recommended Test |
| Left rib pain + back pain | Pancreatic irritation | Amylase, Lipase |
| Pain after alcohol | Liver or pancreatic strain | LFT, Amylase/Lipase |
| Bloating + left rib pain | Gas or stomach irritation | Wellness Profile |
| Pain with fever | Infection or inflammation | CRP, FBC |
| Nausea after meals | Gastritis or pancreas | LFT, Lipase |
| Sharp pain on breathing | Rib or spleen involvement | FBC, CRP |
Clinical Insight
“Pain under the left rib is often linked to gastric or pancreatic irritation. Blood testing helps rule out serious causes and provides early clarity for patients.”
– Dr Lauren Holland
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Book Your Digestive Pain Tests at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
Tel: +44 7495 970109
Open Monday–Saturday, 08:00–16:00
Fast, private and confidential testing with results in 24–42 hours.
Westminster residents receive 20% off.
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