Right-Side Chest Pain? 12 Possible Causes & When to Worry

May 1, 2025

Is that sudden tightness making you stop and think? Right-side chest pain can sneak up in many ways—some harmless, others more serious. That sharp pain on the right side of the chest could be your body’s way of saying something’s off. Let’s unpack 12 possible reasons and help you figure out when it’s time to worry—or just breathe easier.

How It Can Cause Right-Side Chest Pain

Before assuming the worst, pause. The right chest holds ribs, muscles, lungs, liver, and nerves—any can cause pain. Some aches pass quickly; others linger. Watch for added signs like fever, breathlessness, or a fast heartbeat. These signals matter.

1. Muscle Strain or Injury

This is probably the most common reason—especially if you’ve recently lifted something heavy or twisted your body awkwardly.

Signs to look for:

Tenderness when you press on the spot
Worsening pain triggered by motion or breathing deeply
Recent workout, physical activity, or injury

Muscle-related pain usually goes away with rest and heat packs. If it sticks around or worsens, it’s worth getting checked.

2. Rib Fractures or Contusions

Did you fall, get hit during a game, or have an accident? A broken or bruised rib could be the reason.

What it feels like:

Piercing chest pain that becomes worse with each breath or a cough
Pain right over the ribcage
Bruising or swelling in the area

Cracked ribs can take weeks to heal. Pain management is key. But if breathing becomes hard, go straight to emergency medical care.

3. Costochondritis

Hard to pronounce. Easy to feel. This happens when the cartilage between your ribs and breastbone becomes inflamed.

It might feel like:

A dull ache near your breastbone
Pain when you press on the chest
A flare-up after exercise or illness

Though it sounds scary, it’s usually harmless and often clears up on its own. Anti-inflammatory meds and rest help.

4. Gallbladder Issues (Gallstones or Cholecystitis)

Your gallbladder lives under your liver—on the right side. Trouble here can send pain to your chest or shoulder.

Watch for:

Pain after a fatty meal
Nausea or vomiting
Fever or chills

If the pain is severe, you may need surgery. Don’t wait too long. Gallbladder attacks can get serious fast.

5. Liver Conditions (Hepatitis, Liver Abscess)

The liver doesn’t always hurt when it’s sick. But if it swells or develops an abscess, you might feel pain in your upper right chest.

Warning signs:

Yellowing of eyes or skin
Fatigue or weakness
Pain in the upper belly or chest

In many right upper chest pain cases in women, the discomfort is tied to bloating, nausea, or digestion issues. If the pain lingers or feels unusual, check in with your healthcare provider for clarity and peace of mind.

6. Acid Reflux or GERD

Not just a stomach issue. Acid reflux can travel up the esophagus, causing burning or sharp chest pain.

What it feels like:

Burning pain behind the breastbone
Pain after eating, especially spicy or fried food
Sour taste in the mouth

Try smaller meals and avoid food close to bedtime. If over-the-counter meds don’t help, ask your doctor.

7. Pneumonia or Lung Infections

Your right lung could be inflamed or infected, causing pain on that side. Sometimes, it starts mild and worsens.

Symptoms include:

Fever, chills, or cough
Trouble breathing
Pain when you breathe in

This isn’t one to wait on. Call a doctor fast if right lung pain is paired with fever or shortness of breath.

8. Pulmonary Embolism

This is serious. Pulmonary artery clots can result in abrupt chest discomfort and shortness of breath.

You may also feel:

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Rapid heartbeat
Coughing (maybe with blood)

Don’t second guess. If you feel these signs, go to the ER in spring or your nearest emergency room now.

9. Pleurisy

The lining around your lungs can get inflamed, usually from a virus. It causes pain that worsens with breathing.

Pleurisy pain often comes with:

Sharp pain that worsens with deep breaths
Dry cough
Fever (sometimes)

Rest helps, and so do anti-inflammatories. But it’s best to confirm the cause with a doctor.

10. Pancreatitis

Though your pancreas sits lower, pain can rise up toward the chest. It may seem random, but often has clear triggers.

Look for:

Upper belly pain that moves to the chest
Nausea or vomiting
Worsening pain after eating or drinking

Heavy drinking or gallstones are common triggers. This condition needs medical help, sometimes even hospitalization.

11. Anxiety and Panic Attacks

You’d be surprised how often stress mimics serious illness. Panic can cause tightness, a racing heart, and yes—chest pain.

Common chest pain anxiety symptoms include:

Sudden chest pain or pressure
Tingling in arms or hands
Feeling out of control

You’re not imagining it. Your body reacts strongly to stress. If this is happening often, talk to someone. Therapy or breathing techniques can help a lot.

12. Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

Before the rash shows up, shingles can cause pain that feels deep and burning.

Before the rash:

Sharp or tingling pain on one side of your chest or back
Sensitive skin
Pain that seems “under the skin”

It’s more common in older adults. Antiviral meds work best if started early.

When Should You Worry?

Not all chest pain is an emergency. But how do you know when to act?

Seek help immediately if you:

Can’t catch your breath
Feeling dizzy or faint
Pain spreading to your jaw, shoulder, or arm
Notice inflammation, redness, or warmth in your legs
Have a fast or irregular heartbeat

Some of these symptoms suggest serious problems. Places like spring emergency care are ready to help right away. Don’t wait it out if something feels wrong.

Final Thoughts

Right-side chest pain can leave you guessing—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether it’s a muscle strain or something more serious, getting answers early makes all the difference. Don’t wait and wonder. Visit your nearest ER in Spring or a trusted provider for fast, reliable care. Your peace of mind—and health—deserve priority.