Kidney Issues: When to Seek Medical Advice for Pain

Kidney~

I remember during middle school, there were often urine tests! At that time, I had some issues, and a few days later, they came to draw my blood.
I really didn't know what illness I had, and the teacher only told me that I had kidney problems and should not experience too much stress.
Because of that, I have been afraid to see a doctor ever since.
However, now when I stand or sit for a long time, my lower back hurts so much that I can't sit or stand up.
I want to know why this is happening and if I need to see a doctor.
Could you please respond to me? I really hope to receive your consultation.

Ning Ning, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/01/27

Dr. Pan Zhenqin reply Urology

I suspect that your urinalysis may show significant proteinuria, which typically indicates an issue with the glomerular structure of the renal parenchyma.
Over time, this can adversely affect your kidney function.
You are still young and have a long life ahead, so it is important to take good care of your kidneys.
Therefore, I strongly recommend that you muster the courage to visit a major hospital's nephrology department for a thorough examination.
Follow the dietary advice from your physician and nutritionist to avoid reaching a point where your kidney function is severely compromised, potentially requiring dialysis, which would be quite burdensome.
By understanding the underlying issues early and learning how to maintain your health, you can lead a more comfortable and enjoyable life, and the progression of your condition can take a turn for the better, possibly preventing any long-term complications.
Additionally, taking proactive steps towards health may not only significantly alleviate your back pain but also provide you with added benefits, such as improved physique from healthy living.
Wishing you health and safety from the Urology Department of Tainan Hospital, Department of Health!

Reply Date: 2005/01/27

More Info

When it comes to kidney issues and associated pain, it is crucial to understand the potential implications of your symptoms and the importance of seeking medical advice. Based on your description, it sounds like you have a history of kidney problems that were identified during a routine urine test in school. The fact that you experienced follow-up blood tests indicates that there may have been some concern regarding your kidney function at that time.
Kidney problems can manifest in various ways, and one common symptom is pain in the lower back or flank area, which is where the kidneys are located. This pain can be due to several reasons, including kidney stones, infections, or even conditions affecting the surrounding muscles and tissues. The pain you are experiencing when standing or sitting for extended periods could be related to your kidneys, but it could also be due to musculoskeletal issues, especially if you have been inactive or have poor posture.

It is understandable that you may feel apprehensive about visiting a doctor, especially given your past experiences. However, it is essential to prioritize your health and seek medical attention. Ignoring potential kidney issues can lead to more severe complications down the line, including chronic kidney disease or kidney failure, which may require dialysis or other interventions.
You mentioned that you experience significant pain when standing or sitting for long periods. This could indicate that your kidneys are under stress or that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Additionally, if you have a history of proteinuria (the presence of excess protein in urine), this could suggest that your kidneys are not functioning properly. Early detection and management of kidney issues can significantly improve your quality of life and prevent further deterioration of kidney function.

When you visit a healthcare provider, they may conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination, blood tests to assess kidney function (such as serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels), and urine tests to check for protein, blood, or other abnormalities. Imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, may also be necessary to visualize the kidneys and surrounding structures.

In summary, it is highly advisable to seek medical assistance if you are experiencing persistent pain and have a history of kidney issues. A healthcare professional can provide you with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Remember, taking proactive steps towards your health is vital, and addressing any concerns early on can lead to better outcomes and a healthier future. Don't hesitate to reach out to a nephrologist or your primary care physician for guidance. Your kidneys play a crucial role in your overall health, and taking care of them is essential for your well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Kidney Pain: When to See a Doctor and How to Manage It

Doctor, I have been experiencing intermittent pain in both of my kidneys recently, but it's not too severe. Should I see a doctor? How can I improve this condition?

Dr. Yang Weishun reply Internal Medicine
Hello, please go to the Family Medicine department first to have your urine tested for hematuria. If you have any questions, you can schedule an appointment with the Nephrology department. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Yang Wei-shun, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health...

Understanding Kidney Pain: Symptoms, Concerns, and Seeking Help

I woke up on Tuesday morning (3/14) with sudden pain in both of my kidneys. Since I had to go to work, I delayed going for a check-up until the afternoon. The doctor performed a urinalysis and found blood and protein in my urine. The doctor said it was kidney inflammation, but af...

Dr. Pan Zhenqin reply Urology
You mentioned that you have had issues with urine screening since the 5th grade. Is it hematuria or proteinuria? This could be related to your current situation. Additionally, based on your description, I cannot determine whether that episode was truly nephritis or just muscle an...

Understanding Urological Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Hello Dr. Hsu, Thank you for taking the time to address the concerns of many patients, including myself. Last week, I suddenly experienced severe pain in my lower back, suspected to be due to "urinary stones." After some research, I found a hospital to seek treatment (...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, if there are no issues with the kidneys, it is likely a problem related to the skeletal muscles. However, you can perform a self-assessment to confirm: 1. Is the pain related to changes in posture, such as lying down, sitting, or changing to a different position, which all...

Understanding Right Kidney Pain: Causes and Concerns for Patients

Hello, Doctor Wu. I would like to ask, around noon today, I experienced pain in my right kidney. It hurts when I squat down and when I get back up. My job involves standing and squatting to pick things up. In mid-February of this year, the clinic conducted blood and urine tests f...

Dr. Wu Hongjie reply Internal Medicine
Hello: There are many issues related to lower back pain that can be referenced in the attached document or addressed at a hospital. Wishing you safety from bothersome back pain. In the United States, back pain is the second most common reason for seeking medical attention in inte...