Reasons for Right-Side Chest Pain
Know about the common causes of right-sided chest pain, when you should worry about it and how to manage it.
Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 28th Jul, 2025
Introduction
Chest pain can be a frightening experience, especially when it occurs on the right side. While many people associate chest pain with heart problems, right-sided chest pain can stem from various causes, some mild and others more serious. In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons for right-side chest pain, symptoms to watch for, and when you should seek medical attention.
Common Causes of Right-Side Chest Pain
1. Muscle Strain or Injury
Overexertion, heavy lifting, or sudden movements can strain the muscles between your ribs (intercostal muscles), leading to localised pain on the right side. This type of pain often worsens with movement or deep breathing.
2. Costochondritis
This is an inflammation of the cartilage connecting your ribs to the breastbone. It can cause sharp or dull pain on either side of the chest, often mistaken for heart pain.
3. Acid Reflux or GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause a burning sensation in the chest, sometimes felt more on the right side. It may worsen after eating spicy or fatty foods.
4. Gallbladder Issues
Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) can cause sharp pain in the upper right abdomen that may radiate to the right side of the chest. This pain often occurs after eating fatty meals.
5. Liver Conditions
Liver problems, such as hepatitis or liver inflammation that can sometimes cause discomfort in the upper right abdomen that extends to the chest.
6. Pleurisy
Inflammation of the lining around the lungs (pleura) can cause sharp chest pain, especially when breathing deeply or coughing.
7. Pneumonia or Lung Infection
A lung infection on the right side can lead to chest pain, along with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
8. Rib Fracture or Injury
A cracked or bruised rib can cause localised pain on the right side, especially when pressing on the area or taking deep breaths.
9. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)
A reactivation of the chickenpox virus can cause a painful rash on one side of the chest, often accompanied by burning or tingling.
10. Heart or Lung Conditions (Less Common on the Right Side)
While left-side chest pain is more commonly linked to heart problems, right-side pain can sometimes indicate:
- Pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung)
- Pericarditis (inflammation of the heart lining)
- Aortic dissection (rare but life-threatening)
Consult a general practitioner for further Queries.
When Should You Worry?
While many causes of right-sided chest pain are not life-threatening, some symptoms require immediate medical attention. Seek emergency care if you experience:
- Severe, crushing, or squeezing pain
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, or back
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Dizziness
- Nausea, or sweating
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Managing Right-Side Chest Pain at Home
If your pain is mild and not accompanied by alarming symptoms, you can try:
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities.
- Applying heat or ice to the affected area.
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers (if advised by a doctor).
- Eating smaller, lighter meals if acid reflux is suspected.
- Practising deep breathing exercises if stress or anxiety is a factor
When to See a Doctor?
If your pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare provider. Diagnostic tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, or blood tests may be needed to determine the cause.
Final Thoughts
Right-sided chest pain can arise from various causes, ranging from minor muscle strains to serious medical conditions. While not all cases are emergencies, it’s important to listen to your body and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or persistent. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure peace of mind.
Consult a general practitioner for further Queries .
Consult a general practitioner for further Queries .
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Bhukya Pavan Kalyan
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS DNB Paediatrics
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
General Practitioner
7 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
Consult a general practitioner for further Queries.
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Dr Syed Mateen Pasha
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Bhukya Pavan Kalyan
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS DNB Paediatrics
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Syed Ismail Ali
General Practitioner
7 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Sandhya Chandel
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MD (Int. Med.), IDCCM
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(100+ Patients)
