Foolproof Ways to Spot the Sneaky Signs of Kidney Pain

5. When To Contact A Doctor

An affected individual needs to know when to contact a doctor about kidney pain. Patients who mistake back pain for kidney pain will think they can treat their pain at home with over-the-counter medications, rest, and heat therapy. However, kidney pain should not be treated at home without the guidance of a physician. Any severe and persistent pain that is not improving in severity after resting should be evaluated by a physician. Kidney pain that worsens over time can indicate the progression of life-threatening conditions or diseases. Kidney stones can produce pain that may be debilitating to the point where a patient has trouble with walking or standing. If kidney pain is accompanied by other aforementioned symptoms, the patient must seek medical treatment. A kidney stone left untreated can cause a urinary obstruction that leads to irreversible kidney injury and kidney failure. An untreated kidney infection can lead to a life-threatening blood infection called sepsis. Untreated kidney cancer can progress to metastatic cancer that spreads to other parts of the body and cause kidney failure.

6. Does Not Change With Movement

Unlike other types of pain, kidney pain typically doesn't change with movement. Patients usually experience kidney pain on one side of the body, and it is generally felt in one of the flanks (the areas on either side of the spine between the bottom of the ribcage and hips). Pain that originates in the kidneys may sometimes radiate to the inner thighs or lower abdomen. Kidney pain is normally constant, and patients with kidney stones often notice sharp pain. Individuals with kidney infections tend to report feeling a dull ache. While kidney pain does not worsen when the patient moves, it will not resolve without treatment. Changing position does not reduce kidney pain.