Sudden Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Medical Help

Lumbar issues

Hello Doctor,
I apologize for bothering you.
Today, while using the restroom, I suddenly experienced a sharp pain on the left side of my back (approximately at the kidney area) halfway through.
After finishing, the pain improved somewhat, but I still feel a lingering dull ache.
During subsequent restroom visits, the pain was not as intense as before.
My urine appeared clear and colorless (I had consumed about 800 milliliters of water, along with gastrointestinal medication and medication for a sore throat).
I have experienced similar symptoms occasionally in the past, usually after drinking a significant amount of water.
My previous dietary habits were poor; I didn't drink much water and consumed a lot of sugary, oily, and salty foods.
However, I have made some adjustments recently.
Although my urine has been mostly clear lately, it has never caused such severe pain until today.
The mild ache has persisted for about three hours (and has not subsided).
Initially, urination was not too painful, but the discomfort increased towards the end (I did hold my urine for a bit).
My family mentioned that if this is just an isolated incident, there is no need to worry too much, but I still have concerns.
Could you please advise what the potential issue might be? Should I see a urologist or a nephrologist? Are there any specific tests I should undergo? Is this a serious or acute condition? I apologize for the disturbance, and thank you for your assistance.
If there is anything inappropriate in my message, please disregard it, and I apologize once again.

Wu Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/29

Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine

Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing an episode of kidney stones.
You may want to schedule an appointment with a urologist for further evaluation to clarify your condition.
Thank you for your inquiry.
The Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital is concerned about your health.

Reply Date: 2020/11/29

More Info

Sudden abdominal pain, especially when localized to the area around the kidneys, can be alarming and warrants careful consideration. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced a sudden, severe pain in the left side of your abdomen, which improved after using the restroom but left you with lingering discomfort. This type of pain can have various causes, and understanding these can help you determine when to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes of Sudden Abdominal Pain
1. Kidney Stones: One of the most common causes of sudden, severe pain in the flank area (the side of the abdomen) is kidney stones. These can cause intense pain as they move through the urinary tract, and the pain often radiates to the lower abdomen and groin. Symptoms may include hematuria (blood in urine), nausea, and changes in urinary habits.

2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI can cause abdominal pain, especially if it has spread to the kidneys (pyelonephritis). Symptoms may include pain during urination, frequent urge to urinate, and fever.

3. Muscle Strain: Sometimes, the pain can be due to a muscle strain, especially if you have recently engaged in physical activity that may have overexerted your abdominal or back muscles.

4. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even constipation can lead to abdominal discomfort. However, these typically present with additional symptoms like bloating, changes in bowel habits, or indigestion.

5. Pancreatitis: Although less common, inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back. This is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

6. Other Causes: Less common but serious conditions such as a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm or ectopic pregnancy (in women) could also present with sudden abdominal pain.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given the sudden onset of your pain and the fact that it was severe enough to cause concern, it is advisable to seek medical attention if:
- The pain persists or worsens.

- You experience additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or vomiting.

- You notice blood in your urine or have difficulty urinating.

- You have a history of kidney stones or urinary tract infections.

Which Specialist to See
In your case, it would be appropriate to consult a urologist or a nephrologist. A urologist specializes in urinary tract issues, while a nephrologist focuses on kidney health. Given your symptoms, a urologist may be the most suitable choice initially, as they can evaluate for kidney stones or infections.

Recommended Tests
Your healthcare provider may recommend several tests to determine the cause of your pain, including:
- Urinalysis: To check for signs of infection, blood, or crystals that may indicate kidney stones.

- Ultrasound or CT scan: These imaging tests can help visualize the kidneys and urinary tract to identify stones or other abnormalities.

- Blood tests: To assess kidney function and check for signs of infection or inflammation.

Conclusion
While occasional abdominal pain can be benign, sudden and severe pain, especially if it is localized and accompanied by other symptoms, should not be ignored. It is essential to seek medical evaluation to rule out serious conditions and receive appropriate treatment. Adjusting your hydration and dietary habits is a positive step, but if the pain recurs or worsens, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.

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