The right side of my ribs hurt after coughing and are tender to the touch. why and /what is this?

Costochondritis: This type of pain is usually benign - typically a pulled intercostal muscle or costochondritis. More serious conditions include pneumonia or pulmonary embolism (you'd be much sicker, short of breath etc with these conditions).

Musculoskeletal : Coughing can cause rib or cartilage injuries, as well as muscle strains. This is usually self- limiting. It is unusual to have anything as extreme as a rib fracture or cartilage dislocation, but it is possible. If this persists for more than a few days, you should see your family physician.