Have you ever felt a strange burning sensation under your right rib and wondered what it means? Whether it’s a sudden discomfort or a lingering feeling that comes and goes, this type of sensation can be unsettling — especially when it occurs near vital organs.

You’re not alone. Many people experience this symptom, and while it’s not always serious, it shouldn’t be ignored. Let’s break down what might be causing that burning feeling and when it’s time to see a doctor.

What Does a Burning Sensation Feel Like?

The sensation is often described as:

• A warm, tingling, or stinging feeling under the rib cage

• Occasional sharpness or dull discomfort

• Sometimes worsens after eating, moving, or lying down

• May be localized or spread slightly toward the back or shoulder

It may be mild and brief, or it could persist — and the cause can vary from simple digestive issues to underlying organ inflammation.

Common Causes of a Burning Sensation Under the Right Rib

1. Gallbladder Problems (Gallstones or Cholecystitis)

The gallbladder, located just beneath the liver, is a common source of burning pain on the right side — especially after eating fatty or fried foods. When gallstones block bile flow or the gallbladder becomes inflamed, it can trigger a burning, pressure-like pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder.

Symptoms may include:

• Burning sensation after meals

• Nausea or vomiting

• Bloating or burping

2. Liver Inflammation or Fatty Liver Disease

A burning or aching sensation under the right rib cage may indicate an inflamed liver or fatty liver disease. This is especially common in people with obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Watch for:

• Fatigue

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

• Dull, persistent pain

3. Gas and Digestive Issues

Sometimes the cause is as simple as trapped gas or indigestion. The intestines and colon can expand from gas buildup, causing pressure and burning sensations near the ribcage.

Other signs:

• Gurgling sounds in the stomach

• Relief after passing gas or a bowel movement

• Mild bloating

4. Heartburn or Acid Reflux

Although commonly felt in the upper chest or center, acid reflux can also radiate to the right upper abdomen, especially if the esophagus is irritated or inflamed. This may be mistaken for burning rib pain.

5. Muscle or Nerve Strain

A pulled intercostal muscle or an irritated nerve can produce burning sensations. These typically worsen with movement or deep breathing and are common in athletes or anyone who recently lifted something heavy.

6. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

A burning or tingling feeling that appears before a rash could be a sign of shingles, especially if the sensation is localized to one side of the ribcage. This is due to nerve inflammation and may be accompanied by skin sensitivity.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Burning pain that persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Seek medical attention if you have:

• Severe or sudden pain

• Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fever or chills

• Unexplained weight loss

• Pain that spreads to the back, shoulder, or chest

Could It Be a Vascular or Circulatory Issue?

While less common, vascular issues like reduced blood flow or inflammation in nearby arteries can also create burning sensations in certain areas of the body — including under the ribs. At Apex Heart & Vascular Center, we often evaluate symptoms like these to rule out serious cardiovascular or circulatory conditions.

How Apex Heart & Vascular Center Can Help

If you’re experiencing a persistent burning sensation under your right ribs, the expert team at Apex Heart & Vascular Center — led by Dr. Yasir Akram, MD, MPH, FACC, FSCAI — offers comprehensive diagnostic services and advanced treatment options. We serve patients in Houston, Tomball, and Cypress, TX, using cutting-edge tools like vascular ultrasound, imaging studies, and targeted lab tests to identify the root cause of your symptoms. Whether the cause is digestive, musculoskeletal, or vascular, our board-certified team is here to help you find answers — and relief.

Final Thought

A burning sensation under the right rib might be something minor — or it could be your body’s way of saying “pay attention.” Don’t wait for it to get worse. Let an expert evaluate your symptoms and give you peace of mind.