Right Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Kidney Stones and Hydration Tips

Q: Right Lower Abdominal Discomfort: Kidney Stones and Hydration Tips

Hello： Is hydronephrosis related to masturbation? --> There is no correlation. <br>Does drinking a lot of water help alleviate symptoms? (Some online sources suggest drinking more, while others say not to if unable to urinate) --> If it is due to kidney stones, it may help with p

I feel a tightness in my lower right abdomen?

Hello, doctor.
About a week ago, I started feeling a tightness in my lower right abdomen.
There is no pain, just a sensation of tension.
When lying flat, there is no noticeable swelling, and the condition fluctuates; it worsens to the point of affecting my sleep, but lying on my left side feels better.
Lying on my right side causes slight pressure.
I went to a local hospital and consulted both the gastroenterology and urology departments.
An ultrasound and X-ray showed mild hydronephrosis in my right kidney.
The urologist mentioned that there may be small kidney stones inside, and further monitoring is needed.
I was prescribed anti-inflammatory and pain relief medications and advised to drink plenty of water (over 2500 c.c.).
The doctor indicated that medication is not necessary if I don’t feel the need for it, but if follow-up is required, an MRI may be needed.
I would like to ask if the hydronephrosis could be related to masturbation, whether drinking a lot of water can alleviate the symptoms (as some sources suggest to drink more while others say not to if unable to urinate), and what foods or acupressure points are recommended for kidney health.
Thank you.

Xiao Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/03

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Is hydronephrosis related to masturbation? --> There is no correlation.
Does drinking a lot of water help alleviate symptoms? (Some online sources suggest drinking more, while others say not to if unable to urinate) --> If it is due to kidney stones, it may help with passage.
Regardless of symptoms, it is recommended to see a urologist one week later to check if the hydronephrosis has resolved.
As for foods that nourish the kidneys or acupressure massage --> it is not necessary.

Reply Date: 2019/10/03

More Info

Understanding discomfort in the right lower abdomen, particularly in the context of kidney stones, requires a comprehensive approach that considers symptoms, hydration, and lifestyle modifications. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a sensation of tightness or pressure in the right lower abdomen, which could be related to the presence of kidney stones or mild hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney due to urine buildup).

Kidney Stones and Symptoms
Kidney stones can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, discomfort, and changes in urination. The sensation of tightness you are experiencing may be due to the presence of small stones in the kidney or ureter. While you mentioned that there is no significant swelling when lying flat, the intermittent nature of your discomfort could indicate that the stones are moving or that there is some irritation in the urinary tract.

Hydration and Its Importance
Hydration plays a crucial role in managing kidney stones. Drinking plenty of fluids (at least 2,500 cc or more per day, as your doctor advised) helps dilute the urine, which can prevent the formation of new stones and assist in flushing out existing ones. However, if a stone is too large to pass naturally, excessive hydration may not be beneficial and could lead to increased discomfort. It is essential to strike a balance; if you feel that drinking more water exacerbates your discomfort, it may be wise to moderate your intake and consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice.

Relationship Between Hydronephrosis and Sexual Activity
Regarding your question about whether hydronephrosis could be related to masturbation, there is no direct evidence to suggest that sexual activity causes kidney stones or hydronephrosis. However, if the activity leads to dehydration or if it is associated with certain positions that may put pressure on the abdomen, it could potentially contribute to discomfort. Maintaining hydration is key, regardless of sexual activity.

Dietary Considerations and Lifestyle Modifications
In terms of dietary modifications, certain foods can help prevent kidney stones. Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in potassium (like bananas and oranges), can be beneficial. Foods rich in citric acid, such as lemons and limes, can also help prevent stone formation. Additionally, reducing sodium and animal protein intake may lower the risk of stone development.

Acupressure and Massage
As for acupressure or massage, some individuals find relief through gentle abdominal massage or acupressure techniques. However, it is crucial to approach this carefully, especially if you are experiencing discomfort. Consulting with a qualified practitioner who understands the anatomy and potential complications of kidney stones is advisable.

Follow-Up and Monitoring
Given that your ultrasound indicated mild hydronephrosis and potential small stones, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider as recommended. If symptoms persist or worsen, further imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, may be warranted to assess the situation more accurately.
In summary, while hydration is vital in managing kidney stones, it is equally important to listen to your body and adjust your fluid intake based on your comfort level. Dietary modifications, gentle abdominal massage, and regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will help manage your symptoms effectively. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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