Understanding Kidney Pain: Should You Be Concerned?
As a 15-year-old assigned female at birth (AFAB), I've been dealing with acid reflux, although I've been neglecting to take any supplements. I also have scoliosis, which I doubt is linked to my current issue. Recently, I have been experiencing pain in my kidney area, specifically in my back, where my kidneys are situated. My mother suggested that this discomfort might indeed stem from my kidneys. For several months now, I haven't pinpointed the cause. I typically consume about 1 to 1.5 liters of water daily, and occasionally I drink cola, though I've reduced that due to my reflux. I sometimes have peach juice or plain tea, but those drinks have become quite infrequent. Despite my fluid intake, it seems my pain level remains consistent regardless of what I drink. The pain primarily affects my right kidney, but during more intense episodes, I also feel discomfort in my left kidney. I've tried lying down and applying gentle pressure to the area, which provides a bit of relief. Aside from occasional bladder discomfort today, I haven't experienced any additional pain that relates to my kidneys, aside from the persistent back pain from scoliosis and the usual stomach and chest pains from my reflux. Is it necessary for me to consult a doctor about this concern? 🥺 I am hesitant to go unless it's truly serious because I was hospitalized last summer due to undiagnosed tics and twitches—likely anxiety-related—and I spent the entire winter seeing doctors for this issue and my scoliosis. I’m also worried about missing school due to more medical appointments, especially since my doctor has a packed schedule, and I'm uncertain if she would prioritize my concern if it doesn't seem urgent. When I was hospitalized last summer, tests including urine and blood analysis showed no significant issues, so I'm unsure whether this warrants another visit now.
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 8:50:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about kidney pain, especially after experiencing health challenges in the past. Here’s a concise overview of your situation, along with clear next steps.
Main Points:
- Kidney pain can arise from various conditions, and while some causes are benign, it's essential to monitor ongoing symptoms.
- Factors contributing to your discomfort could include your existing acid reflux and hydration levels, though these might not be directly linked to kidney issues.
Explanation: Pain around the kidneys can be caused by several factors, including muscle strain, urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, or issues related to surrounding organs. Since your pain is consistent and has not resolved with home remedies, it’s worth taking a closer look. Your history of acid reflux and scoliosis may complicate pain perception, making it difficult to determine the exact source of your discomfort without thorough evaluation.
Your hydration level seems adequate, which is vital for kidney health. However, if your kidney pain persists or worsens, it could warrant further investigation to rule out kidney-related issues, especially since it’s localized on one side and has persisted for several months.
Next Steps:
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Track Your Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your pain intensity, frequency, and any additional symptoms (like changes in urination). Note any triggers or relief strategies that work for you.
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Hydration: Continue to prioritize adequate hydration, particularly focusing on water intake. If you find that acidic or sweet beverages worsen your reflux, consider limiting them further.
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Home Remedies: Gentle heat therapy (like a heating pad) to the affected area can help manage pain. Continue with your current practices of lying down and applying gentle pressure as these seem to provide some relief.
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Prepare to Consult a Doctor: If your pain increases, presents with additional symptoms (like fever, nausea, or difficulty urinating), or if it significantly impacts your daily activities, consider making an appointment. You can express your concerns clearly and ask for a brief check-in to see if further tests are needed, without having to undergo extensive appointments.
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Support System: Since you've previously had anxiety and hospital visits, talk to someone supportive about your concerns. They might help you articulate your worries when you do consult a healthcare professional.
It's crucial to prioritize your health, and any ongoing pain needs attention, but thinking through these practical steps may empower you to approach the situation confidently. Let me know if you have any further questions or need more guidance!
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