Where Does Kidney Pain Occur? Causes & When to Seek Treatment

Kidney pain can feel confusing and scary, especially when you don’t know where it’s coming from or what it means. Many people mistake it for regular back pain and end up ignoring it, which can delay important treatment.

Unlike muscle pain, kidney pain is often deeper and more persistent. It may signal something more serious, like an infection, stones, or other kidney conditions. 

If you're a Bangladeshi patient worried about discomfort in your back, sides, or abdomen, knowing where kidney pain occurs and how to recognise it can help you take the right steps.

This blog will explain where does kidney pain occur?, how it feels, how it differs from common back pain, and when you should speak to a doctor.

Common Locations of Kidney Pain

Typical Areas Affected

Where is kidney pain felt? Most often, it's in the flank area—either side of the spine between the lower ribs and hips. This discomfort often presents as a dull ache or sharp pain and can extend to the lower abdomen or groin area. 

Left vs. Right Kidney Pain

Each kidney is located on either side of the spine, with the right kidney sitting slightly lower due to the liver's position. Pain can occur on one or both sides, depending on the underlying cause:

• Right Kidney Pain: This may be associated with conditions like kidney stones or infections affecting the right kidney.​
  
  
• Left Kidney Pain: This could indicate issues such as hydronephrosis or infections impacting the left kidney.​
  
  

Kidney Pain vs. Back Pain – How to Differentiate?

Some symptoms of kidney pain include a dull ache under the ribs, pain that radiates to the groin, or discomfort accompanied by urinary changes or fever.

Distinguishing between kidney pain and muscular back pain can be challenging, but certain characteristics can help:​

Causes of Kidney Pain

You might wonder, what causes kidney pain? It can result from infections, stones, injuries, or inherited conditions like PKD.

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract. Symptoms include intense pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, and nausea. 

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs occur when bacteria infect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys. When the infection reaches the kidneys (pyelonephritis), it can cause pain, fever, and urinary symptoms. 

Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis)

A kidney infection is a specific type of UTI that begins in the bladder or urethra and travels to one or both kidneys. It can lead to permanent kidney damage if not treated promptly. Common symptoms of kidney infection include fever, chills, back or side pain, and frequent urination. 

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

PKD is a genetic disorder characterised by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. These cysts can cause the kidneys to enlarge and lose function over time, leading to pain and other complications. 

Kidney Trauma

Physical injury to the kidney from accidents or contact sports can result in pain, bruising, and blood in the urine. Depending on the severity, treatment may range from rest and monitoring to surgical intervention.

Dehydration

Severe dehydration can lead to kidney pain as the kidneys struggle to function without adequate fluid intake. Ensuring proper hydration is essential for kidney health. ​

Kidney Infection: Causes & Treatment

Causes of Kidney Infection

• Urinary Tract Blockages: Conditions such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can impede urine flow, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth.​
  
  
• Weakened Immune System: Diseases like diabetes or treatments like chemotherapy can compromise the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.​
  
  
• Vesicoureteral Reflux: This condition causes urine to flow backwards from the bladder into the ureters and kidneys, increasing infection risk.​

Treatment Options

Effective treatment of kidney infections focuses on eradicating the infection and preventing complications:​

• Antibiotics: The first line of treatment involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. It's crucial to complete the full prescribed course, even if symptoms improve, to ensure complete eradication.​
  
  
• Hospitalisation: Severe infections may require hospitalisation for intravenous antibiotics and fluids. This is more common in cases involving high fever, dehydration, or persistent vomiting.
  
  
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort. However, consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.​
  
  
• Addressing Underlying Causes: If structural abnormalities or obstructions are contributing to recurrent infections, surgical intervention may be necessary.​

Kidney Care & Treatment at Apollo Hospitals

Advanced Imaging & Diagnostic Tools for Kidney Pain

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of kidney pain. Apollo Hospitals employs state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tools, including:​

• Ultrasound Imaging: Provides real-time images of the kidneys, aiding in detecting abnormalities such as stones or cysts.​
  
  
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scans: Offers detailed cross-sectional images, useful in identifying complex kidney conditions.​
  
  
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Utilised for comprehensive evaluation of kidney structures and function.​

Expert Nephrologists & Urologists for Accurate Diagnosis

Apollo Hospitals boasts a team of highly skilled nephrologists and urologists dedicated to diagnosing and treating kidney disorders. With over 6,000 nephrology admissions and more than 5,000 urological surgeries annually, the team's expertise is well-established. Their collaborative approach ensures comprehensive evaluation and management of kidney-related ailments.