The right side of your chest might hurt when you swallow due to gastrointestinal issues, especially those affecting the esophagus or organs located on the right side of your abdomen.
This type of pain can arise from various conditions:
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Esophageal Problems:
- Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus can cause pain with swallowing.
- Esophageal Spasms: Involuntary muscle contractions in the esophagus can lead to sharp chest pain.
- Esophageal Ulcers: Sores in the lining of the esophagus may cause pain, especially when swallowing.
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Gallbladder Issues:
- Gallstones: Gallstones can cause pain that radiates to the right chest area, particularly after eating fatty foods.
- Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder can also cause referred pain to the right chest.
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Liver Problems:
- Hepatitis: Liver inflammation might sometimes cause pain that is felt in the right upper abdomen and potentially referred to the right chest.
- Liver Abscess: Though rare, an abscess in the liver can cause pain on the right side of the abdomen that might radiate to the chest.
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Other Potential Causes:
- Muscle Strain: A strained muscle in the chest wall could be aggravated by the act of swallowing.
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum can also cause chest pain.
- Referred Pain: Pain from other areas in the body, such as the neck or shoulder, might be felt in the right chest.
It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They may recommend tests such as an endoscopy, ultrasound, or blood tests to determine the underlying cause of your pain.
