myPBCteam

Side pain with PBC is really common, and it can be tricky to figure out exactly what's causing it. Liver pain typically shows up in the upper right part of the abdomen, just below the rib cage — but it can also spread to the back and shoulder blades, which can make it confusing.

Since the liver itself has no nerve endings Show Full Answer

Side pain with PBC is really common, and it can be tricky to figure out exactly what's causing it. Liver pain typically shows up in the upper right part of the abdomen, just below the rib cage — but it can also spread to the back and shoulder blades, which can make it confusing.

Since the liver itself has no nerve endings, the discomfort is usually coming from inflammation or swelling of the surrounding tissues. With PBC, liver pain may be related to:

- Liver inflammation
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
- An enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)
- Pressure or indentation on the outer liver The pain can feel different for different people. Some myPBCteam members describe it as dull and achy, while others say it feels sharp or stabbing. One myPBCteam member even noted feeling pain when their liver touched the kitchen counter while cooking!

It's worth mentioning the pain to your doctor, especially if it's new or getting worse. They can help figure out whether it's liver-related or something else like a muscle strain.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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