Left Side Abdominal Pain and Blood in Urine

There is occasional dull pain in the left flank?

There is a dull pain in the left side of the lower back, and today there was blood in the urine.

Hong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/10/09

Dr. Chen Jingwen reply Internal Medicine

Based on the description, if it is not during the menstrual period, there are two likely possibilities: (1) acute right-sided pyelonephritis, for which urine tests and abdominal ultrasound are recommended.
(2) right kidney stones, for which the same tests as (1) are suggested, along with a kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) X-ray.
If it is during the menstrual period, then 1.
it is possible that menstrual blood has contaminated the urine, causing blood in the urine; observation is advised, and urine tests can be conducted after the menstrual period to check for urinary tract infection.
2.
If the urine tests are normal, it may simply be muscle soreness, and symptomatic treatment is sufficient.
If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is recommended to perform a renal ultrasound and other further tests to rule out other less common renal diseases, such as tumors, tuberculosis, or abscesses.

Reply Date: 2003/10/09

More Info

When experiencing left side abdominal pain accompanied by blood in the urine, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution and seek medical attention. The combination of these symptoms can indicate a variety of underlying conditions, some of which may require urgent care.

Firstly, the left side abdominal pain could stem from several sources. Given the proximity of the kidneys to the abdominal cavity, renal issues such as kidney stones, infections, or even tumors could be potential causes. The presence of blood in the urine, known as hematuria, can be associated with these kidney-related issues. For instance, kidney stones can cause significant pain as they move through the urinary tract, and they can also lead to bleeding. Similarly, infections such as pyelonephritis or glomerulonephritis can present with both abdominal pain and hematuria.

Another possibility is that the pain could be related to gastrointestinal issues. Conditions such as diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or even gastrointestinal obstruction can cause left-sided abdominal pain. However, these conditions typically do not cause blood in the urine, so they may be less likely if hematuria is present.

In your case, the presence of blood in the urine is particularly concerning and warrants further investigation. It is essential to determine whether the blood is coming from the urinary tract or if it is a result of bleeding from another source, such as the gastrointestinal tract. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to rule out serious conditions.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider may recommend a series of tests, including:
1. Urinalysis: This test will help determine the presence of red blood cells, white blood cells, and other substances in the urine that could indicate infection or other issues.

2. Imaging Studies: A CT scan or ultrasound of the abdomen may be ordered to visualize the kidneys and surrounding structures to identify any stones, masses, or abnormalities.

3. Blood Tests: These can help assess kidney function and check for signs of infection or other systemic issues.

4. Cystoscopy: In some cases, a direct examination of the bladder and urethra may be necessary to identify any lesions or abnormalities.

It is also important to consider your medical history and any other symptoms you may be experiencing. If you have a history of kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or other relevant conditions, be sure to inform your healthcare provider, as this information can guide their evaluation and management plan.

In summary, the combination of left side abdominal pain and blood in the urine is a concerning symptom that should not be ignored. It is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Early intervention can be crucial in managing potential complications and ensuring better health outcomes.

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