Understanding the Causes of Ribcage Pain

4. Gallstones

Gallstones are pebbles of cholesterol, calcium, or bilirubin. They develop naturally, and they don’t usually cause any symptoms. However, when they become trapped in the duct -- the opening or passage within the gallbladder -- they can trigger intense pain felt in the abdomen, just under the center of the rib cage and slightly to the right. An attack of gallstone pain can last one to five hours, and it’s known as biliary colic. Gallstones will usually pass by themselves, delivering a sharp pain when they do. Occasionally, people need medical intervention to remove gallstones.