Concerns About Possible Kidney Stone
Hello! I'm a 33-year-old woman weighing 141 pounds and standing at 5 feet tall. Over the last two days, I've been experiencing a sharp discomfort on my left side, just beneath my ribs. This pain becomes evident when I take a deep breath or make certain movements. Given the symptoms and my previous experience with kidney stones, I suspect this could be another occurrence. Unlike my last kidney stone, which I passed within 48 hours after experiencing significant pain, this time I only feel the discomfort when changing positions. When I'm seated or moving about gently, there isn’t any pain. Though I feel fine enough to walk and continue my daily activities, I’m being extra careful with my movements. Additionally, I've noticed a sensation in my left kidney area when I touch my back. Currently, my temperature is 99.4 degrees. Should I consider visiting the emergency room, or is it reasonable to wait until I hear back from my primary care doctor?
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 6:00:47 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing discomfort that could be related to your kidneys, particularly given your history with kidney stones. While your symptoms may not be severe enough to warrant an emergency room visit at this moment, it's important to pay close attention to how they evolve. Here’s a breakdown of some key points and the steps you can take:
Understanding Your Symptoms
- Location and Nature of Pain: Sharp discomfort on your left side, especially near the ribs, can indicate issues with the kidney, such as a stone or potential irritation. Noting that the pain intensifies with movement is also important.
- Temperature: A low-grade fever (99.4°F) can sometimes indicate inflammation or infection, especially if accompanied by pain.
- Previous Experience: Since you've had kidney stones before, your concern is valid. However, the fact that you're able to continue daily activities and the pain is manageable is a positive sign.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms over the next few hours. Pay particular attention to any changes in pain intensity, the emergence of new symptoms (like fever above 100.4°F, blood in urine, severe nausea, or changes in urinary habits), and the overall feeling of illness.
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Hydration: Increase your fluid intake unless your doctor has instructed otherwise. This can help flush out any possible small stones and support kidney function.
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Rest and Careful Movement: Since the pain is position-dependent, continue to be gentle with your movements to avoid exacerbating any discomfort.
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Prepare For Your Doctor Appointment: If the symptoms persist or worsen, including an escalation in pain, developing fever, or any new concerning symptoms, notify your primary care doctor as soon as possible. Document your findings, such as when the pain occurs and any relieving factors—this will aid your doctor in assessing your situation.
When to Seek Immediate Care
If you experience any of the following, you should consider going to the emergency room:
- Severe, uncontrollable pain that doesn’t improve with rest.
- Significant fever (above 101°F).
- Nausea or vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down.
- Blood in your urine.
- Any signs of swelling or significant changes in urinary output.
It's understandable to feel anxious, but many kidney-related issues can be managed effectively with appropriate monitoring and care. Please stay aware of your symptoms and prioritize hydration and comfort. Let me know if you have any further questions or need clarification!
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