Experiencing Kidney Issues?
A 28-year-old male who has a history of THC and nicotine use, and is a former alcohol user, is feeling quite perplexed. During a recent telehealth consultation, medical professionals suspected he might have a urinary tract infection (UTI) due to the symptoms he presented. They prescribed him Bactrim, which he took as directed. However, after a couple of days, he noticed a resurgence of flank pain. Following this, he sought assistance at an urgent care center where they proposed the possibility of kidney stones. Seeking clarity, he visited yet another urgent care facility where various tests—including blood work, urine analysis, and imaging—were conducted. Ultimately, the doctors concluded that no significant issues were identified, suggesting the pain might be muscular or skeletal in nature. Upon receiving his test results, he discovered several noteworthy findings: his red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels were all lower than normal, alongside a decreased mean platelet volume (MPV). In contrast, his neutrophil levels appeared elevated. Interestingly, urine analysis from the 16th indicated “trace leukocytes,” yet the test conducted on the 18th returned a negative result. Aside from these abnormal readings, other factors were reassuring, as he reported no blood or protein in his urine, no unpleasant odor, an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 130, nor any fever or nausea—just persistent flank discomfort that occasionally radiates into the groin area. With a follow-up appointment scheduled for Tuesday, he is reaching out to see if anyone else has encountered similar challenges. He acknowledges his anxiety might be causing him additional stress in this situation. Any insights or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 7:01:00 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're navigating a complex situation with ongoing flank pain and some concerning lab results, but it's encouraging that severe issues like kidney stones or significant infections have been ruled out. Your anxiety about this situation is understandable, especially with the uncertainty surrounding your symptoms.
Key Points Summary:
- Ongoing Flank Pain: This might not be directly related to stones or a urinary tract infection.
- Test Results: Your blood work shows some abnormalities that are worth discussing further, but severe conditions have been largely excluded.
- Anxiety: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate physical discomfort, which is important to acknowledge.
Explanation: Flank pain can stem from various causes, including muscular strain, tension, or even anxiety-related discomfort. Since your imaging and urine tests have indicated no critical issues, it’s essential to consider other non-urological sources for your symptoms. The reduced red blood cell count and lower mean platelet volume might warrant further investigation, as these can relate to different conditions, but they do not appear to relate directly to your current symptoms based on your medical evaluations.
Immediate Steps:
- Pain Management: Focus on controlling pain with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the instructions on the packaging.
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated to help with overall kidney function and to potentially ease discomfort.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any related activities. This will be useful during your follow-up appointment.
- Stress Reduction: Consider techniques to manage anxiety, like deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices, to help alleviate the physical symptoms that can accompany stress.
- Prepare for Follow-Up: Write down any questions or concerns you have for your upcoming appointment. Be sure to include inquiries about your blood work results and potential next steps.
Remember, the follow-up appointment is an opportunity to address any remaining questions and get clarity on your situation. You're taking a proactive step by seeking advice and engaging with healthcare professionals, which is commendable.
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