An Overview of Kidney Pain

Kidney Stones:

• Description: Hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys.
• Causes: Dehydration, high-protein diet, certain medical conditions.

Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis):

• Description: Bacterial infection of the kidneys.
• Causes: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) that spread to the kidneys.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):

• Description: A genetic condition leading to cysts developing in the kidneys.
• Causes: Inherited genetic mutations.

Kidney Injury:

• Description: Trauma to the kidneys due to accidents or physical impact.
• Causes: Falls, car accidents, athletic activities.

Kidney Tumors:

• Description: Benign or malignant growths in the kidneys.
• Causes: Unknown; risk factors include smoking, family history, and genetic conditions.

Hydronephrosis:

• Description: Swelling of a kidney due to urine buildup.
• Causes: Blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or tumors.

Glomerulonephritis:

• Description: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units.
• Causes: Autoimmune diseases, infections, certain drugs.

• Location of Pain: Typically felt in the back, sides, or under the ribs.
• Pain Characteristics: Sharp, severe, or dull and constant.
• Associated Symptoms:
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent or painful urination
• Blood in urine (hematuria)
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Fatigue and general malaise
• Swelling in legs or feet (edema)

• Severe Pain: Intense, unrelenting pain in the back or sides.
• Persistent Symptoms: Symptoms lasting more than a few days.
• Fever: Accompanied by kidney pain, indicating possible infection.
• Blood in Urine: Visible or microscopic hematuria.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Accompanied by pain.
• Difficulty Urinating: Pain during urination.
• History of Kidney Problems: Known issues with kidney stones, infections, etc.

Kidney Stones:

• Pain Relief: NSAIDs or prescribed pain medications.
• Hydration: Increased fluid intake to help pass the stone.
• Medical Procedures: Lithotripsy, surgical removal.

Kidney Infections:

• Antibiotics: Treatment for bacterial infections.
• Pain Relief: NSAIDs or prescribed pain medications.
• Hydration: Increased fluid intake.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):

• Management: Pain relief, blood pressure control, dialysis, or transplant.
• Monitoring: Regular check-ups for kidney function.

Kidney Injury:

• Immediate Care: Emergency treatment for trauma.
• Pain Management: NSAIDs or prescribed pain medications.
• Rest: Avoiding strenuous activities.

Kidney Tumors:

• Treatment Options: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy.

Hydronephrosis:

• Addressing the Blockage: Removing or treating the cause (e.g., kidney stones).
• Drainage: Insertion of a catheter or surgical intervention.

Glomerulonephritis:

• Medications: Immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, or other anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Lifestyle Changes: Dietary modifications and managing underlying conditions.

• Primary Care Physician: Initial evaluation and referral.
• Urologist: Specialist in urinary tract and kidney conditions.
• Nephrologist: Specialist in kidney diseases.
• Emergency Room: For severe, acute pain or trauma-related kidney issues.
• Online Platforms: Use websites or apps to find and schedule appointments.