Right Ribcage Swelling & Discoloration: Causes & When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical attention if you have right ribcage swelling with discoloration. This could be a sign of a serious medical condition, such as:

* A rib fracture. If you have pain and swelling in your right ribcage after an injury, you may have cracked or broken a rib.

* A chest infection. Infections such as pneumonia or pleurisy can cause the right ribcage to swell and appear discolored.

* A blood clot. A blood clot in the lung or in a lung artery (pulmonary embolism) can cause swelling and discoloration of the right ribcage.

* Heart failure. If you have right ribcage swelling and shortness of breath, it could be a sign of heart failure.

Other potential causes of right ribcage swelling with discoloration include:

* Cancer

* Liver disease

* Kidney disease

* Autoimmune disorders

* Hernias

* Muscle strains

* Trauma

Depending on the cause, treatment for right ribcage swelling with discoloration may include:

* Pain relievers

* Antibiotics

* Surgery

* Rest

* Physical therapy

See your doctor as soon as possible if you have swelling and discoloration in your right ribcage. Do not wait until the symptoms get worse to seek help.