What causes kidney pain. Why do kidneys hurt. When should you talk to your doctor about kidney pain treatment.

Understanding Kidney Pain

Kidney pain can have various causes, from infections and injuries to kidney stones and cancer. It’s crucial to differentiate kidney pain from back pain to identify the underlying issue and seek appropriate treatment. This article explores the causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical attention for kidney pain.

Where Do I Feel Kidney Pain?

Kidney pain is typically felt in the middle to upper back, just under the ribcage on either side of the spine. The kidneys are part of the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, ureters, and urethra. Pain in these areas does not always indicate a problem with the kidneys, as the surrounding muscles, bones, and organs can also be the source of discomfort.

What Does Kidney Pain Feel Like?

Kidney pain often feels like a dull ache that may worsen when the area is gently pressed. While it’s more common to experience pain on one side, some health conditions can affect both kidneys and cause discomfort on both sides of the back.

Kidney Pain vs. Back Pain

Distinguishing kidney pain from back pain can be challenging, as their locations overlap. However, there are some key differences:

• Kidney pain is felt high on the back and deeper in the body, while back pain is usually felt in the lower back.
• Kidney pain tends to be duller, while back pain may feel more like a stabbing sensation.
• Kidney pain can occur on one or both sides, while back pain often radiates down one leg.
• Back pain may worsen with certain activities, such as bending over or lifting heavy objects, and may ease with rest or body shifting, while kidney pain is less likely to improve with these measures.

What Causes Kidney Pain?

Kidney pain can have a variety of causes, including:

• Kidney stones: One of the most common causes of kidney pain, kidney stones form when waste products in the blood crystallize and accumulate in the kidneys.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Bacterial infections in the urinary tract, often originating in the bladder or urethra, can lead to kidney pain and other symptoms such as fever and frequent urination.
• Dehydration: Insufficient hydration can sometimes cause kidney pain, particularly in individuals with certain health conditions like diabetes.
• Kidney infections: Bacteria can spread to the kidneys from other parts of the urinary tract, leading to a potentially serious kidney infection that requires prompt treatment.
• Kidney injury: Physical trauma, such as a fall or accident, can cause kidney injury and pain.
• Kidney cancer: As kidney cancer progresses, it may cause persistent pain in the side, back, or abdomen.
• Polycystic kidney disease: This genetic condition causes fluid-filled cysts to grow in the kidneys, leading to pain and enlargement of the kidneys.

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Pain?

The symptoms associated with kidney pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. In addition to pain in the back or side, some other common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Blood in the urine
• Pain or discomfort when urinating
• Body aches or chills
• Fatigue
• Nausea

If you experience any of these symptoms along with kidney pain, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as they may indicate a serious kidney problem that requires immediate treatment.

When to Seek Medical Care for Kidney Pain

If you are experiencing persistent or severe kidney pain, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. Some situations that warrant a visit to the doctor include:

• Sudden, severe kidney pain
• Persistent kidney pain that does not improve with rest
• Kidney pain accompanied by fever, blood in the urine, or pain during urination
• Kidney pain that interferes with your daily activities

Your doctor can perform various tests, such as urine analysis, imaging scans, or bloodwork, to identify the cause of your kidney pain and develop a treatment plan to address the underlying issue.