What causes kidney pain?

Sep 25, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, when urinating, I have felt some pain, and my lower back has been sore. I suspect there might be an issue with my kidneys. I would like to ask, what are the symptoms of kidney pain?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Guang

Kidney pain, usually referring to pain in the renal area, may be caused by various factors. The following are some possible causes:

1. Kidney stones: Kidney stones are one of the most common causes of kidney pain. When minerals in the urine crystallize and form stones, which then move within the kidney or cause blockage, they can irritate the urinary tract mucosa and cause severe pain. This pain often starts in the flank area and radiates toward the lower abdomen, and may be accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination and hematuria (blood in the urine).

2. Urinary tract infections: Including pyelonephritis, which is caused by bacterial invasion of the urinary tract. The infection typically starts in the bladder and then ascends to the ureters and kidneys, causing inflammation and kidney pain. Patients may also experience symptoms such as urgency to urinate, painful urination, and difficulty urinating.

3. Renal vascular diseases: Such as renal artery stenosis or renal vein thrombosis, which can lead to insufficient blood supply to the kidney or circulatory dysfunction, thereby causing renal ischemia and pain.

4. Nephroptosis (Kidney prolapse): Abnormal downward displacement of the kidney may stretch the renal pedicle structures, leading to flank pain.

5. Hydronephrosis: Urinary tract obstruction causes urine accumulation, resulting in kidney distension and pain.