The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the ribcage. Kidney pain, also known as renal pain, can be felt in the back, sides, or lower abdomen. The pain may be dull, sharp, or cramping and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty urinating.
The location of the kidney pain can give clues to the underlying cause. Here are some common causes of kidney pain and where the pain is typically felt:
Kidney stones: Small, hard deposits of minerals and salts can form in the kidneys and cause pain. The pain from kidney stones is often felt in the back or side, usually on one side of the body. The pain may come and go, and can be severe.
Urinary tract infection (UTI): Infections of the bladder or urethra can sometimes spread to the kidneys, causing pain in the upper back and sides. UTI-related kidney pain may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, chills, and painful urination.
Kidney infection: If a UTI spreads to the kidneys, it can cause a more serious infection known as pyelonephritis. In addition to back pain, symptoms may include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and pain or burning during urination.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): This inherited condition causes multiple cysts to grow in the kidneys, leading to enlargement of the organs and pain. The pain is usually felt in the back or sides and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as high blood pressure and blood in the urine.
Kidney cancer: Tumors in the kidneys can cause pain as they grow and press against surrounding tissues. The pain is usually felt in the side or lower back and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as blood in the urine, weight loss, and fatigue.
Other conditions: Other conditions that can cause kidney pain include glomerulonephritis, interstitial nephritis, and hydronephrosis (enlargement of the kidney due to urine backup).
If you are experiencing kidney pain or other symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. In some cases, kidney pain may be a sign of a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention, such as a kidney infection or cancer.
