Combat Alcoholism

Subscribe via Email

Can Lower Back Pain Be a Sign of Kidney Problems?

You can get back pain for a variety of reasons. In fact, there are dozens of possible causes. Most of the time, nerve damage in the spine or injuries to the muscles, tendon and ligaments of the back are at fault. Such is not always the case, however.

The trouble may, in fact, be a kidney problem. Kidney stone pain, according to many people who have experienced it, is some of the worst pain you’re ever likely to feel.

So, what are the signs and symptoms that your back pain is due to a kidney problem rather than nerve damage or a muscular injury?

Location is your first clue. Kidney pain usually happens in the “flank” region, which is just below the bottom of your rib cage.

Pain from a kidney problem often comes on fast and strong. You seem fine – and then a few minutes later you’re dealing with a lot of discomfort.

Kidney stones often trigger back pain as they move down the urinary tract. Kidney stones tend to be extremely painful when they cause a blockage in the ureters.

Another sign of a kidney problem is dark urine. If your urine is reddish or reddish brown, it could mean there’s blood in your stream – a sign that something is probably wrong.

People with kidney problems – or other urinary tract disorders – usually feel the need to urinate a lot. But most of the time, very little urine is produced.

Individuals with kidney stones or a kidney infection often feel a stinging or burning sensation during urination too.

Kidney stones sometimes pass out of your body when you urinate, especially if you drink a lot of water. Back pain and discomfort stops immediately.

Kidney stones, although they can cause extreme pain and discomfort, are not considered a threat to life.

A kidney infection, however, can lead to kidney failure. When kidney failure is left untreated, it is potentially fatal. Therefore, if you even suspect your back pain is coming from a kidney infection, it’s best to call a doctor right away.

Still looking for additional articles on related subjects? Click on renal failure. Neal Kennedy is a retired radio and TV reporter with a special interest in topics related to health and fitness. You can read more of his articles about kidney trouble at http://www.kidney-problem.org.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!