Experiencing Kidney Discomfort and Tiredness: Should I Be Concerned?
Hello there! I am a 24-year-old woman in good health, currently using the progestin-only pill for contraception. I am not expecting a baby and my past medical history includes surgery for urinary reflux when I was a child. For the past fortnight, I’ve been bothered by a peculiar, dull pain located on the left side of my back, underneath the rib cage. It resembles a sensation related to my kidney, with a sense of pressure that feels as though it stretches directly from my spine to my left flank. While it’s not particularly painful, it’s a strange sensation. Unfortunately, its intensity has remained constant, neither improving nor worsening. Occasionally, I experience the pressure extending to the front of my left side, but that is infrequent. At times, it also seems like the sensation shifts slightly up and down my back. Initially, I speculated that it might be gas or perhaps a muscle strain, but its persistence has made me more concerned. Using a heating pad and applying pressure provides slight relief, yet the dull ache continues. While I have not dealt with nausea, my appetite has diminished, and I’ve noticed a level of fatigue that I would rate around a 7 out of 10. My mother thinks my tiredness could be linked to seasonal allergies, though I remain uncertain. Just a week prior to these symptoms starting, I underwent a blood test, and the results indicated that everything was normal, including my electrolytes. I’ve worried that I might be developing a kidney stone, although I have no prior experience with them. I’ve been making a conscious effort to hydrate significantly and have taken a break from my workout routine, but I am still apprehensive about this situation. I’m unsure if this condition warrants monitoring or if I should seek medical advice immediately. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
3/30/2025, 12:40:34 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about persistent discomfort, especially in the kidney area, combined with fatigue and changes in appetite. While many causes can lead to these symptoms, it’s important to monitor them and take appropriate steps.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms—dull pain on the left side, slight fatigue, and reduced appetite—could arise from various factors, including muscle strain, kidney issues, or even gastrointestinal concerns.
- It’s great that you're hydrating and using heat for relief, but continued observation and certain self-care measures are essential.
Explanation
- Kidney-Related Concerns: Your history of urinary reflux and the specific nature of your pain do warrant some caution. Kidney stones are a possibility, but your symptom profile (lack of severe pain or nausea) doesn't strongly indicate this yet.
- Muscle Strain or Gastrointestinal Issues: Since the pain has a dull quality and occurs intermittently, it might also be due to muscle strain or gastrointestinal issues like gas, especially if you’ve changed physical activity levels recently.
Next Steps
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily journal noting the pain’s intensity, location, any changes, and your overall energy levels.
- Manage Fatigue: Ensure you are getting sufficient rest and managing stress. Regular, gentle activities like stretching or walking can help with overall well-being.
- Hydration and Diet: Continue to hydrate well and consider a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to support energy levels and digestive health. Monitor your appetite closely.
- Heat Application: Continue using a heating pad for comfort as it gives you some relief.
- Signs to Watch For: If the pain increases, you develop additional symptoms (such as fever, severe nausea, changes in urination, or worsening fatigue), it’s essential to seek medical advice promptly.
If symptoms persist or worsen over the next week, or if anything feels concerning, consider reaching out for a professional evaluation. This situation doesn’t necessarily require immediate medical attention, but it’s crucial to keep an eye on the symptoms.
Related Questions
Seeking Advice on 9mm Kidney Stone Treatment Without Stenting
Hello everyone! I'm a 29-year-old female who discovered a 9mm kidney stone in my right kidney following a CT scan conducted for an unrelated issue. Fortunately, I'm not experiencing any symptoms at the moment. When I was 21, I successfully passed smaller stones. I’m curious why my doctor isn’t recommending the use of a stent, as most sources I've read suggest it's a common part of the treatment process. Is it standard procedure to forgo a stent in this case? I have some concerns about potential complications arising from not having one, despite my preference to avoid using a stent altogether. Additionally, I have a trip scheduled about a month and a half after the treatment. Do you think I will be fit to travel by then?
Exploring the Use of Tadalafil in Combination with Flomax for Kidney Stones
I came across research indicating that Tadalafil showcases a superior expulsion rate for kidney stones compared to Flomax. Interestingly, findings suggest that administering both Tadalafil and Flomax together may yield even more beneficial outcomes since each medication operates through different mechanisms. I'm considering reaching out to my urologist for his insights, but given that I reside in a rural area with limited access to medical professionals, appointments tend to be rushed. I might need to explore self-management options. As for my situation: - I am dealing with a 5mm kidney stone located in my distal ureter. - I do not smoke or consume alcohol. - Generally, my health is stable aside from GERD, and I've had my gallbladder surgically removed. - Lately, I've been experiencing persistent bladder pressure and discomfort daily, likely due to the stone being lodged near the bladder. - Thankfully, I am not running a fever, can still urinate, and feel relatively okay overall. - The stone has been in the distal ureter for about a month, during which time I have only consumed water, lemon water, and taken renal stone dissolution pills. - I weigh approximately 210 pounds.
Concerns About My Recent UTI
Age 20 - Currently undergoing treatment with ciprofloxacin for a urinary tract infection. This marks the second instance of a UTI for me. After a year free from any symptoms, it has returned, and I'm increasingly anxious about the health of my kidneys. Last month, I experienced a frightening episode where I woke up in the night needing to urinate and noticed some blood in my urine. I promptly arranged for a urinalysis, after which my doctor prescribed cephalexin for a duration of seven days. However, after completing the course, a follow-up urinalysis revealed a worsening condition. The count of pus cells and red blood cells had increased, while the presence of epithelial cells and phosphates was now moderate, with a significant bacterial presence. Consequently, my physician transitioned me to ciprofloxacin, advising me to take a 500mg dosage every eight hours for a week. My growing concern revolves around the possibility of kidney infections or even chronic kidney disease. Furthermore, I should mention that during my previous UTI episode last year, my test indicated an albumin level of 2+. After some research, I learned that this could signify potential damage to my kidneys. Currently, my urinalysis shows only traces of albumin, but I remain uncertain about whether my kidneys are significantly impacted. Is my kidney health compromised?
How to Keep Kidney Stones at Bay: Seeking Advice
Age: 33 Gender: Male Height: 6 feet Weight: 96 kg Ethnicity: Caucasian Location: Australia Whenever the query, ‘What has been the most excruciating pain you’ve ever endured?’ appears on Askreddit—happening roughly three times a week—the responses frequently cite kidney stones as a leading contender. This condition seems to invoke an intensity of suffering that I am desperately keen to evade! I've always prioritized hydration and am a committed water drinker. However, I do have a penchant for soda water and Coke Zero. While energy drinks are off my list, I indulge in approximately four cups of coffee each day. In addition, I engage in regular physical activity a few times weekly. I’m curious to learn what additional measures I can adopt to ensure that this dreadful pain remains a distant fear. I appreciate any guidance you can offer!
Advice Needed on Iron Supplementation Schedule
As a 22-year-old female, I currently have a ferritin level of 25 ng/mL and am taking Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate combined with Vitamin C as a dietary supplement. I’m seeking guidance on whether I should be consuming this iron supplement on an empty stomach daily, or perhaps every other day. My research yielded mixed advice; some sources advise that taking this milder iron option every other day may enhance its absorption, while others advocate for a daily intake. At the moment, I am taking the supplement every other day without experiencing any adverse effects. I would appreciate your insights on the best approach. Thank you!