KIDNEY PAIN

KIDNEY PAIN

Kidney pain refers to the discomfort in the area where your kidneys are. It is described as a dull ache, a discomfort you feel in your sides, back, or belly. It appears deeper and higher up the back. Additionally, the pain also advances to other areas such as the abdomen and groin.

The following problems that can cause kidney pain are as follows:

  • Urinary tract infection (UTI)
  • Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
  • Bleeding or blood clots in the kidney
  • Kidney infection

If you are pregnant and have kidney pain, you should immediately seek medical help.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of kidney pain are associated with discomfort, aches, and sharp pain in the back between the lowest rib and the buttocks. The pain discharges down the side of the groin or toward your abdomen.

In some cases, a person develops signs and symptoms such as:

  • Fever
  • Painful urination 
  • Blood in the urine
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Rash
  • Fatigue
  • Chills

Additional symptoms may include:

  • metallic taste in the mouth
  • bad breath
  • swelling and shortness of breath.

If you develop any of the symptoms aforementioned, call your doctor and have it checked as soon as possible.

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis for the kidney varies depending on the condition. Available tools used are as follows:

  • Urinalysis examines the blood, excess white blood cells, certain chemicals, and proteins that link to different kidney disorders.
  • Imaging tests like ultrasound and computed tomography scan and give an image of the kidney and urinary tract, check if stones are present, and determine if the blood flow is sufficient.

TREATMENT 

Kidney pain treatment varies depending on the underlying cause of pain. Ibuprofen, ketorolac, and acetaminophen may help relieve the pain, but they do not deal with the pain’s underlying causes.

On the other hand, urinary tract infections (UTIs) and pyelonephritis require antibiotics in addition to medications for pain. Moreover, surgery is only required for severe cases of kidney stones and lacerations.

It is important to note that patients with kidney problems should avoid ingesting pain medications that may cause further damage. Thus, it is important to consult a doctor first in order to receive the proper treatment for your kidney.

 

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