OpenHealth Q&A

Could Kidney Size Be the Hidden Cause Behind My Abdominal Discomfort?

Greetings! I’m a 37-year-old female, weighing 115 lbs and standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall. I have no significant medical history or ongoing concerns, and I do not engage in smoking or drinking. Currently, I am experiencing troubling symptoms: - Swelling and discomfort in my legs, ankles, and feet. At times, the pain is intense enough that walking becomes quite challenging. Additionally, I’ve noticed unusual abdominal pain, but I’m beginning to suspect that it might not be related directly to my stomach. When the pain in my legs is most severe, I often feel pain in the pelvic area, similar to menstrual cramps—though I am not menstruating. Could this be referred pain, or possibly an issue related to my renal system? Moreover, I have been dealing with a persistent low-grade fever that doesn’t seem to resolve. These symptoms have been ongoing for about four months now. I was generally in good health prior to this period and had never needed to take pain relief medication, yet now I find myself coping with daily discomfort. A few months back, I underwent abdominal ultrasound imaging due to these unexplained pains, but it yielded no significant findings. However, a closer examination of the report revealed some variations in kidney volume: - Right Kidney Volume: 176.35, Width: 6.04 - Left Kidney Volume: 120.29, Width: 4.11 Although the imaging focused on my abdomen because of the pain, it seems my left kidney is smaller than usual. This has raised concerns for me, particularly since I have been experiencing more pain on the left side of my abdomen. Does this disparity indicate that my right kidney might be enlarging or that the left one is decreasing in size? From what I’ve gathered, typically, the left kidney is slightly larger, so should these measurements prompt further examination? Additionally, laboratory tests indicated some minor abnormalities flagged as low, which I have not encountered before. Potassium, GFR, and BUN/creatinine levels were lower but have since reverted to my usual baseline. On top of that, I am now observing a slight trend showing lower Carbon Dioxide and a higher chloride level (for instance: chloride at 109 and CO2 at 18). Even though these changes are mild, they still deviate from my normal values. Given all these factors, could what I’ve assumed to be abdominal pain actually stem from my kidneys? I had a colonoscopy combined with an endoscopy last December, and the results were normal. Moreover, I consulted a urologist about the persistent presence of “trace” blood and “trace” leukocytes in my urine, yet no infection was identified. My urine often appears cloudy and contains many specks of white. I’m beginning to wonder if these symptoms might be connected to kidney issues. I mentioned my leg discomfort and the swelling of my ankles—how my socks leave indentations on my skin—but he dismissed it, attributing the swelling to the tightness of my socks, despite it being a long-standing issue. Now, my shoes also feel too tight. I’m uncertain about the next steps regarding these concerns. Any insights would be greatly appreciated! I wanted to seek advice here before deciding whether to pursue further investigation or if I might just be overreacting to these findings. Thank you! 🙏

Answers (1)

3/5/2026, 10:30:46 PM

OpenHealth AI

It’s clear you are experiencing multiple troubling symptoms, and it’s understandable that you are seeking clarity and guidance regarding your health. The combination of leg swelling, abdominal discomfort, fever, and the findings from your kidney ultrasound suggests that the origin of your symptoms may need further exploration.

Summary of Key Points:

1. Your symptoms, especially the swelling in your legs and the abdominal pain, could be interconnected and may potentially relate to kidney issues.
2. Variations in kidney size can indicate underlying conditions but often warrant further examination to rule out serious problems.
3. Persistent low-grade fever and abnormal urine findings signal that monitoring and possible investigation are needed.

Explanation:

The disparity in your kidney sizes, particularly with the left kidney being smaller, may reflect changes that could be related to underlying conditions affecting kidney function or development. Pain on the left side of your abdomen correlates with this and may warrant further investigation given the presence of persistent symptoms, including leg swelling and abdominal discomfort.

Swelling in your legs and feet, along with the indentations left by your socks, may indicate fluid retention, which could be related to kidney function or systemic issues like circulation or heart function. The presence of trace blood and leukocytes in your urine also requires attentive review and monitoring.

Next Steps:

1. Track Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including severity, duration, and any triggers you notice. This can help when discussing your condition with healthcare providers.

2. Fluid Management: Consider adjustments in your salt intake; excessive sodium can lead to fluid retention, worsening swelling. Aim to consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

3. Further Evaluation: It may be prudent to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider who specializes in nephrology (kidney health) or internal medicine. You might request:

   • A repeat kidney ultrasound or additional imaging to assess for changes in size or function.
   • Blood tests to monitor kidney function (like creatinine and GFR), electrolytes, and other markers of health over time.
   • Urinalysis to look for persistent abnormalities and potential infection or protein issues.

4. Physical Activity & Compression: Engage in gentle activities that promote circulation, like walking or stretching, if feasible. Consider using compression stockings to help manage leg swelling, but ensure they are fitted properly.

5. Seek Immediate Help for Severe Symptoms: If you experience worsening pain, difficulty breathing, or any other concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

It's important not to dismiss your concerns; persistent symptoms warrant thorough investigation. You are advocating for your health, and that’s crucial. Please feel free to ask if you have further questions or need clarification on specific terms or concepts!