Persistent Flank Discomfort Post-Fluid Consumption: Seeking Insights on PUJ Obstruction and Stent Efficacy
Greetings, medical community, I am a 30-year-old man who has been troubled by **intermittent discomfort in my flank** for the past year. This pain often arises after I consume **fluids**, initially triggered by alcohol consumption, which exacerbated my symptoms. Over time, I've noticed that even water, coffee, and tea can provoke the same issue. While the pain isn't constant, it occurs quite often, particularly after taking diuretics. After undergoing a **CT scan** and **renal evaluations** (with T1/2 drainage times at 10 and 12 minutes), the results indicated **hydronephrosis** along with a **PUJ obstruction**. Fortunately, my kidney function remains intact, and there are no signs of kidney stones. To address the obstruction, I underwent a **ureteral stent placement** through pyeloscopy. Despite this intervention, I continue to experience the same discomfort after fluid intake, which is disheartening considering the stent is currently in place. My urologist acknowledges the obstruction but expresses uncertainty regarding its role in my pain since the stenting procedure has not alleviated my symptoms. He is hesitant about moving forward with a **pyeloplasty** at this stage. 👉 I’m not seeking a diagnosis, but I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has experienced similar symptoms or may know of comparable cases. Did those who had pyeloplasty find relief where stenting failed? Thank you for any guidance you can provide.
Answers (1)
6/17/2025, 3:40:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel frustrated when ongoing symptoms persist despite previous interventions. Your experience with intermittent flank discomfort, especially after fluid intake, following the placement of a ureteral stent for PUJ obstruction, can indeed be challenging. Here’s a concise overview and some guidance based on your situation.
Main Points
- Persistent Pain Post-Stenting: Continued discomfort despite a stent suggests there may be other factors at play beyond the PUJ obstruction.
- Consider Other Causes: Your symptoms can be multifaceted, potentially involving the bladder, ureters, or changes in fluid dynamics due to the stent.
- Evaluate Pain Triggers: Observing which specific fluids trigger your pain may provide clues.
Explanation
The ureteropelvic junction (PUJ) obstruction can lead to hydronephrosis, causing flank pain. While stenting is often effective, it's not uncommon for some individuals to report ongoing symptoms. Since your kidney function is normal and there are no stones, the pain may arise from areas impacted by the obstruction or bladder irritability due to frequent fluid intake.
Next Steps
- Symptom Journal: Keep track of when the pain occurs, what you eat or drink before it starts, and any other relevant activities. This can help identify specific triggers.
- Hydration Techniques: Try to manage your hydration by pacing fluid intake; instead of consuming a large amount at once, opt for smaller sips throughout the day.
- Diet Adjustments: Monitor your diet closely. Since you noted issues with alcohol, coffee, and tea, consider reducing or eliminating these beverages temporarily to see if it brings relief.
- Pain Management Strategies: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory drugs may help ease discomfort on an as-needed basis, but always follow guidelines for safe use.
- Open Communication with Urologist: Continue discussing your symptoms with your urologist, focusing on any new developments. If the pain persists, gauge the possibility of more aggressive interventions like pyeloplasty based on ongoing evaluation and the impact on your quality of life.
Being proactive about your symptoms while maintaining ongoing dialogue with your healthcare provider is crucial. You are not alone in facing such challenges, and there are paths towards relief. If you find that pain management strategies are insufficient, or if your quality of life is significantly affected, it may warrant revisiting the discussion about surgical options.
Related Questions
Chronic Joint Pain Since Childhood
Since I was eight years old, I’ve endured intense and persistent pain in my joints. Initially, the discomfort was primarily in my knees, characterized by a sharp sensation right beneath the kneecap. As someone on the autism spectrum, I often visualize a strange, soothing thought: the idea of removing my kneecap and using an ice cream scoop to relieve the pressure underneath it. My parents sought help from several medical professionals, all of whom attributed my symptoms to growing pains. I even underwent cancer screenings at the age of nine because doctors felt my level of discomfort was excessive for mere growing pains. At school, I frequently had to wear dual knee braces. When I turned 14, I had a CT scan, but the results were inconclusive; doctors continued to insist it was just growing pains. At 18, I had an X-ray that also revealed nothing abnormal. Now at 20, my joint pain persists and is progressively worsening. My hands now ache in addition to my knees, and on particularly bad days, the pain radiates down to my ankles, making walking and sleeping almost impossible for half the week. The discomfort has entirely hindered my ability to work. My family and I strongly suspect that I may have some form of arthritis, but I struggle to convince the medical community of this due to my young age. My father, who suffers from arthritis himself, often empathizes when I express my pain, telling me, "that sounds familiar." I have broken down in front of numerous doctors, pleading for assistance, yet I consistently leave without answers, only to be scheduled for more scans that come back normal. The medical care I have received thus far has been far from satisfactory; for instance, I was prescribed eye drops that nearly resulted in serious damage to my vision when I consulted an eye specialist. This is just one of many frustrating experiences I’ve faced. I feel completely overwhelmed and in agony, and I have no way to reach out for specialized medical help since my only means of transportation is my father, who is also afflicted by arthritis. I feel lost and in deep pain without a clear path forward.
Understanding Mild Uncomplicated Diverticular Disease
I am a 29-year-old female, standing at 5'7" and weighing 130 pounds. Recently, a CT scan revealed that I have mild diverticulitis. About a week ago, I experienced significant discomfort, particularly in the pelvic region, along with pain in my right leg and hip, and some mild discomfort on the left side. After undergoing a CT scan, which confirmed the presence of mild diverticular disease, I was surprised that no one from my medical team provided any follow-up or acknowledged the condition. My blood tests returned normal results, and I was discharged without further information. While the pain subsided after about three days, it has unfortunately reappeared four days later. Is this something I should be worried about? What does this mean for me? I had a colonoscopy around 11 months ago, which indicated no issues.
Understanding the Reality of End-Stage Pancreatic Cancer
Navigating the complexities of end-stage pancreatic cancer can be overwhelming, and I'm seeking clarity on what lies ahead. My mother, who is 59 years old and weighs about 115 pounds, received her diagnosis of terminal pancreatic cancer in October 2025. Unfortunately, she has largely rejected the option of chemotherapy and is consuming her pain relief medications—specifically oxycodone and morphine—at an alarming rate. While I’m not worried about the dosage, the severity of her pain has reached a level that is becoming unbearable. Despite this, she is adamant about avoiding any hospital treatment, even though that's where she would receive the most effective pain management. I’ve attempted multiple times to get her medical attention, calling both hospitals and emergency services. However, due to her refusal for assistance, they have also turned us down. It was explained to me that taking her against her will could be considered kidnapping. After consulting with various healthcare professionals, I have been informed that her time may be measured in days or weeks. There’s also a chance that she could slip into unconsciousness, leaving me deeply unsettled. I am already in a state of mourning, yet I am desperate to understand what to expect in the coming days. It is crucial for me to prepare myself—emotionally and mentally—so that I can help ensure her comfort in these final moments. Plans are underway to engage hospice care, but the uncertainty fills me with apprehension. This is my mother, and I want to alleviate my fear so I can provide her with the support she needs as she nears the end of her journey. I yearn to be present for her without being entirely consumed by grief before she passes away. Any guidance or insight you could provide would be invaluable. I'm at a loss for what steps to take next and truly desire to navigate this situation with as much grace and readiness as possible.
Prolonged Miscarriage: Over Four Weeks In
A 35-year-old woman managing Type 1 diabetes with an insulin pump has been experiencing a challenging period marked by a recent miscarriage. This occurred just shy of ten weeks into the pregnancy, following an extremely positive pregnancy test, although medical confirmation had not yet been obtained. The physical symptoms were quite severe, with substantial bleeding that included large tissue clumps and blood clots observed during a shower. The size of these clots was rather alarming, comparable to a fist, causing blockage in the drain. Initially, for the first three to four days, there was heavy bleeding, requiring three pads daily. After that, the situation gradually improved, and around a week ago, she reached a point where only a pantyliner might suffice. Despite the reduction, bleeding persisted intermittently, mainly noticeable upon wiping, with instances of no blood at all, leading to inconsistencies in her experience. Recently, she has been feeling bloated and has noticed a resurgence in bleeding, necessitating the use of pads twice daily. Additionally, she has been experiencing light cramps and has developed acne. A subsequent pregnancy test revealed continued positive results. Now, with over four weeks of bleeding, she reached out to her physician’s office. However, the response was not one of concern, suggesting that she could schedule a visit at her convenience if she felt the need. The cost of visiting a doctor or urgent care deters her from seeking immediate professional help unless absolutely warranted. Overall, she reports feeling generally well, but is seeking advice from others. Is there cause for alarm, or is it feasible to let things unfold naturally? Could this miscarriage have evolved into her menstrual cycle instead? Additionally, it's worth noting that she occasionally finds small blood clots on the toilet paper after wiping. Since the onset of this situation, she has abstained from sexual intercourse.
Exploring Inositol and CoQ10 for Managing PCOS Symptoms
As a 28-year-old female, I have faced the challenges of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) since my teenage years. Starting from the age of 16, I have dealt with highly irregular menstrual cycles, occurring anywhere from three to eight months apart. My diagnosis has been substantiated through two ultrasounds and blood tests revealing elevated androgen levels. Despite maintaining a healthy diet and leading an active lifestyle—balancing my work as an environmental biologist with gym sessions alongside my husband—I continue to wrestle with weight management. Other symptoms impacting my daily life include significant hair loss, unwanted facial hair, and persistent fatigue. In my journey to manage PCOS, I previously sought counsel from a gynaecologist, who primarily suggested hormonal birth control as the main approach to alleviate my symptoms. Although I adhered to this recommendation for several years, the hormonal changes negatively impacted my mood, leading me to discontinue its use. Another alternative proposed by my gynaecologist involved androgen blockers, but these are not suitable for me since my husband and I plan to start a family in the next two to three years. Recently, my research led me to discover that supplements like Inositol and CoQ10 might effectively combat insulin resistance and lower androgen levels. They are purported to improve various symptoms associated with PCOS, including the regulation of ovulation, all while boasting minimal adverse effects. I am curious about the viability of these supplements as alternatives to hormonal birth control or androgen blockers in managing my PCOS symptoms.