Kidney Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Next Steps

Kidney problems?

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 after seeing so many discussions online, I am worried that I might develop kidney failure.
I started taking medication on Tuesday, but on Friday (3/17) at noon, I accidentally took an extra pill, and I had a terrible headache all afternoon (actually, I had been feeling dizzy since Friday morning).
Strangely, my kidney pain stopped on Friday, but I started experiencing intermittent headaches that moved from the front to the back of my head and vice versa.
Now (Saturday evening), my headache has improved, and my kidneys no longer hurt, but I am still very scared.
The doctor seemed dismissive, asking a few questions and then telling me to get a urinalysis.
When I asked him several questions, he was not patient in answering.
I am very concerned and hope that some kind-hearted doctors online can help me.
Can you recommend a caring doctor in Tainan City? Is there a doctor who can perform a complete ultrasound examination of my kidneys? What aspects should be checked to ensure my kidneys are healthy? Also, if kidney inflammation persists, what could happen? Thank you to the kind doctors who can answer my questions.

P.S.
I have had issues with urine screening since fifth grade, but nothing significant has happened in the past ten years.
Six years ago, I had an examination, and the doctor said everything was fine, but now my kidneys suddenly hurt, and the doctor only mentioned inflammation.
P.S.
I used to have severe urinary retention, which has caused my urine stream to be inconsistent; it often flows out instead of coming out in a straight line.
Sometimes, I have to strain to urinate, but there is no burning sensation while urinating (my bladder does not feel uncomfortable).

Ke lian ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/18

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Don't worry! It's not that serious.
If both sides hurt, it doesn't necessarily indicate a kidney problem; it could be pain from a muscle strain in the lower back (it won't hurt when you're still, but it will hurt when you change positions).
Kidney inflammation doesn't always cause back pain, and the two conditions should be relatively easy to differentiate.
Please visit a urologist at the hospital for a thorough examination.

Reply Date: 2006/03/18

More Info

It sounds like you're going through a challenging time with your kidney health, and I understand your concerns. Let's break down your situation and address your questions step by step.

Understanding Your Symptoms
You mentioned experiencing sudden pain in both kidneys, along with blood and protein in your urine, which your doctor attributed to kidney inflammation. This condition can be concerning, but it's essential to understand that kidney inflammation can arise from various causes, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or even certain medications. The presence of blood (hematuria) and protein (proteinuria) in your urine indicates that there is some level of kidney damage or irritation.

Concerns About Kidney Failure
Your worry about progressing to kidney failure is valid, especially given your symptoms. However, not all cases of kidney inflammation lead to chronic kidney disease or failure. The key factors that determine the outcome include the underlying cause of the inflammation, how quickly it is treated, and whether there are any other contributing health issues.

Next Steps and Recommendations
1. Follow-Up Testing: Since you have already experienced symptoms for a few days, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. Request a comprehensive evaluation, including:
- Urinalysis: To monitor the levels of blood and protein.

- Blood Tests: To check kidney function (specifically creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels).

- Imaging Studies: An ultrasound of the kidneys can help visualize any structural abnormalities, cysts, or obstructions.

2. Consult a Specialist: If you feel that your current doctor is not addressing your concerns adequately, consider seeking a nephrologist (a kidney specialist). They can provide a more in-depth evaluation and tailored treatment plan. In Tainan, you can look for reputable nephrologists at local hospitals or clinics.

3. Managing Symptoms: Since you mentioned that your kidney pain has subsided but you are experiencing headaches, it's essential to communicate this to your doctor. Headaches can sometimes be related to dehydration, medication side effects, or even stress. Ensure you are drinking enough fluids and managing any medications as prescribed.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments: While you wait for further evaluation, consider making some lifestyle changes that can support kidney health:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

- Avoid over-the-counter pain medications like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) that can stress the kidneys.

- Maintain a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods.

Long-Term Outlook
If kidney inflammation is treated promptly and effectively, many patients can recover without long-term complications. However, chronic inflammation can lead to scarring and reduced kidney function over time, so it’s crucial to address any underlying issues.

Conclusion
Your health is paramount, and it’s essential to advocate for yourself. If you feel your concerns are not being taken seriously, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion. Remember, early intervention is key to preventing potential complications. Keep track of your symptoms, and ensure you have open communication with your healthcare providers. If you have any further questions or need assistance finding a specialist, feel free to ask.

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