Abdominal, Kidney, and Arm Pain: A Family Medicine Perspective

Lower back issues, kidney problems, arm issues?

Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about some health issues I have been experiencing.
Recently, I have been feeling intermittent pain on both the left and right sides near my waist, close to my navel.
The pain is not severe enough to prevent me from walking or standing, but it is concerning.
I am wondering if this could be related to kidney problems, especially since I do not drink much water; my intake is about 60% beverages and 40% water.
Additionally, I work primarily in an office setting, sitting for about 6-8 hours a day.
Could poor posture also be a contributing factor? Sometimes I experience dizziness and persistent dark circles under my eyes; could these symptoms be related to the issues mentioned above?
Furthermore, I have another concern regarding my left upper arm, specifically in the bicep area.
Whenever I raise my arm or move it, I feel soreness similar to a strain, and this has been ongoing for about two weeks without improvement.
Is this likely not just due to poor posture? Thank you, Doctor, for your assistance!

thomas, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/25

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
Thomas,
Regarding your letter mentioning intermittent pain in both sides of your lower back, along with occasional dizziness and dark circles under your eyes, it is advisable to clarify the details and undergo a physical evaluation.
I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a family medicine specialist who can assess your condition in person and arrange for necessary diagnostic tests.
Additionally, the soreness in your left upper arm, which feels similar to a strain, may be related to repetitive motions or improper exertion causing a muscle strain.
It is important to rest that area, and if the symptoms persist, I suggest visiting an orthopedic or rehabilitation clinic for further evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2020/07/25

More Info

When it comes to abdominal and kidney pain, as well as discomfort in the arm, it's essential to consider a range of potential causes and contributing factors. Your symptoms, particularly the pain on both sides of your abdomen near the waist and the discomfort in your left arm, warrant a thorough evaluation to determine their underlying causes.

Abdominal Pain
The pain you describe on the left and right sides of your abdomen could be related to several issues. Given that you mentioned the pain is not severe enough to prevent you from walking or standing, it may not be an acute condition like appendicitis or a severe kidney stone. However, it is crucial to consider the following possibilities:
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: Since you spend a significant amount of time sitting, poor posture can lead to muscle strain or tension in the abdominal area. This could manifest as intermittent pain, especially if you have been engaging in activities that strain your core muscles.

2. Gastrointestinal Problems: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gas, or constipation can cause localized abdominal pain. If your diet lacks fiber or if you have irregular eating habits, this could contribute to your symptoms.

3. Kidney-Related Issues: While you mentioned that you do not drink enough water, which can lead to dehydration and potentially kidney stones, your symptoms do not strongly indicate a kidney problem, especially if you have not experienced severe pain or changes in urination. However, it is still advisable to monitor your hydration levels and consider increasing your water intake.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the abdomen can be referred from other areas, such as the back or pelvis. Given your sedentary lifestyle, it’s possible that tension in your back could be contributing to your abdominal discomfort.

Arm Pain
Regarding the pain in your left arm, particularly in the bicep area, there are several considerations:
1. Muscle Strain: If you have been engaging in activities that require lifting or repetitive motions, you may have strained your bicep muscle. This could explain the soreness when you lift your arm.

2. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome or cervical radiculopathy can cause pain in the arm due to nerve compression. This is particularly relevant if you have poor posture while sitting, which can lead to nerve irritation.

3. Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder or arm can cause pain during movement. This is common in individuals who perform repetitive tasks or maintain poor posture.

Additional Symptoms
The dizziness and persistent dark circles under your eyes could be related to several factors, including:
- Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can lead to dizziness and fatigue.

- Poor Sleep: If you are experiencing discomfort that affects your sleep quality, this could contribute to feelings of dizziness and dark circles.

- Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly iron or vitamin B12, can lead to fatigue and dizziness.

Recommendations
1. Hydration: Increase your water intake to ensure proper hydration, which is vital for kidney function and overall health.

2. Posture Correction: Evaluate your workspace ergonomics. Ensure that your chair and desk are set up to promote good posture, which can alleviate strain on your back and abdomen.

3. Physical Activity: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. This can help strengthen your core muscles, improve circulation, and reduce tension.

4. Medical Evaluation: Given the persistence of your symptoms, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend imaging studies or blood tests to rule out any underlying conditions, especially if your symptoms do not improve with lifestyle changes.

5. Physical Therapy: If your arm pain persists, consider seeing a physical therapist who can provide targeted exercises and treatments to alleviate your discomfort.

In summary, while your symptoms may not indicate a severe condition, they are significant enough to warrant further investigation. By addressing hydration, posture, and activity levels, you may find relief from your discomfort. However, do not hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms.

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