Back Pain Near the Kidneys: Signs and Concerns

Q: Back Pain Near the Kidneys: Signs and Concerns

Hello： In response to your question, it was mentioned that your daily fluid intake is less than 2000cc, and due to work-related factors, you urinate infrequently, resulting in darker yellow urine. <br>This is a mechanism by which the kidneys concentrate urine to retain sufficient

Back pain near the kidneys?

I have a strong aversion to drinking water, and I typically consume about three bowls of soup and one cup of milk each day, occasionally adding a 600cc bottle of sports drink.
I've had no issues throughout my life, but since I started working as a call center operator about a year ago, I've found it inconvenient to go to the bathroom.
Recently, the color of my urine has mostly been a cloudy yellow, and I've experienced a dull pain in my lower back, near my kidneys.
Sometimes the pain goes away, but it returns if I hold off on using the restroom for too long.
Could this be a sign of kidney disease? If so, should I see an internist or a urologist? Additionally, since there is a family history of hereditary diabetes, could this mean my kidneys are at a higher risk of issues compared to others?

Wawa, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/06

Dr. Yang Jun reply Internal Medicine

Hello: In response to your question, it was mentioned that your daily fluid intake is less than 2000cc, and due to work-related factors, you urinate infrequently, resulting in darker yellow urine.
This is a mechanism by which the kidneys concentrate urine to retain sufficient body water and minimize fluid loss.
However, this can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones.
The pain in your back and lower back could be caused by muscle, nerve, skeletal joint issues, or kidney disease.
If you are concerned that it may be related to the urinary system, you can visit a nephrologist or urologist for a urine test to confirm the diagnosis.
Complications of diabetes include kidney disease, so individuals with diabetes should regularly undergo urine tests to check for proteinuria and strictly control blood sugar and blood pressure to reduce the risk of diabetes-related kidney disease.

Reply Date: 2006/02/06

More Info

Understanding back pain near the kidneys, especially when accompanied by changes in urinary habits, is crucial for identifying potential underlying health issues. Your symptoms, including the back pain and changes in urine color, could indeed indicate a problem related to your kidneys or urinary tract.

Signs and Symptoms to Consider
1. Back Pain Location: Pain in the lower back, particularly near the kidneys, can be indicative of various conditions. This pain can stem from kidney issues, such as kidney stones or infections, or from musculoskeletal problems due to posture or prolonged sitting, especially in a job that requires you to remain seated for extended periods.

2. Urinary Changes: The fact that your urine is often a murky yellow suggests dehydration, which can lead to concentrated urine. This can irritate the bladder and kidneys, potentially leading to infections or other complications. Frequent urination and urgency, as you described, can also be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder issues.

3. Hydration: Your reported fluid intake is quite low, especially considering your work environment. Adequate hydration is essential for kidney health. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to concentrated urine, increasing the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections.

4. Family History: With a family history of diabetes, it’s important to monitor your kidney health closely. Diabetes can lead to kidney damage over time, known as diabetic nephropathy. Regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor kidney function are advisable, especially if you have risk factors.

Recommendations
1. Seek Medical Attention: Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. You may start with a visit to a primary care physician or an internist, who can evaluate your symptoms and determine if a referral to a nephrologist (kidney specialist) or urologist (urinary tract specialist) is necessary.

2. Hydration: Increase your fluid intake significantly. Aim for at least 8-10 cups of water daily, or more if you are active. This can help dilute your urine and reduce the risk of kidney stones and infections.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency and intensity of your back pain and any changes in your urinary habits. If you experience fever, chills, or blood in your urine, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments: Consider making adjustments to your work environment to allow for more frequent bathroom breaks. This can help prevent urinary retention and associated complications.

5. Regular Check-ups: Given your family history of diabetes, regular health check-ups are essential. Blood tests to monitor kidney function (such as serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen) and urine tests can help catch any issues early.

Conclusion
Your symptoms warrant attention, especially considering your low fluid intake and family history of diabetes. While back pain and urinary changes can be benign, they can also signal more serious conditions. Early intervention is key to preventing potential complications. Make sure to prioritize hydration and seek medical advice to ensure your kidney health remains optimal.

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