Frequent Urination and Chronic Lower Back Pain: Possible Kidney Issues?

Frequent urination and chronic lower back pain?

Hello Dr.
Yang! I just turned 20 this year and have been suffering from chronic lower back pain.
Additionally, I experience frequent urination.
I have consulted with gynecologists, orthopedists, and have undergone urine tests, but there has been no improvement and the underlying cause remains unclear.
The location of my back pain is on the left side, and I am wondering if it could be related to my kidneys.
Could you please help me with this? Thank you!

Ms. Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/20

Dr. Yang Zhangzhi reply Urology

Hello, among the common urinary frequency issues in women, the most prevalent is overactive bladder, where the bladder contracts involuntarily, leading to urinary frequency symptoms, especially under pressure.
The second common issue is interstitial cystitis, which involves inflammation of the entire bladder wall, resulting in reduced capacity and increased sensitivity, making urinary frequency more likely.
The third issue is chronic cystitis, where heightened bladder sensitivity causes abnormal contractions, leading to bladder instability and urinary frequency.
The fourth is stress urinary incontinence, where about one-third of patients may also have overactive bladder, making urinary frequency quite evident.
If kidney problems are causing lower back pain, it is typically persistent and localized to the same area.
Changes in body posture have little effect on the pain, so it is recommended that you bring any previous examination reports (including ultrasound, etc.) to a medical center for a comprehensive evaluation.

Reply Date: 2006/08/20

More Info

Frequent urination and chronic lower back pain can indeed be interconnected, and it’s important to consider various underlying causes that may be contributing to your symptoms. At the age of 20, while kidney issues are less common, they can still occur, especially if there are risk factors or underlying conditions present.

Frequent urination, or polyuria, can be caused by a variety of factors, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder conditions, diabetes mellitus, or even certain medications. Given that you have already consulted multiple specialists, it’s crucial to ensure that all potential causes have been thoroughly investigated. If your urine tests have come back normal, it may be worth considering other diagnostic tests, such as an ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder, to rule out structural abnormalities or kidney stones that may not have been detected in previous evaluations.

Chronic lower back pain, particularly localized to one side, can have several causes. While kidney issues, such as nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) or pyelonephritis (kidney infection), can present with flank pain, other musculoskeletal issues could also be at play. Conditions such as muscle strain, herniated discs, or even postural problems can lead to persistent pain in the lower back. It’s also worth noting that referred pain from the kidneys can sometimes manifest as back pain, especially if there is an underlying infection or inflammation.

In your case, the combination of frequent urination and left-sided lower back pain could suggest a few possibilities:
1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Even if your urine tests were normal, it’s possible to have a UTI that may not show up in standard tests. Symptoms can include frequent urination, urgency, and sometimes back pain if the infection ascends to the kidneys.

2. Kidney Stones: These can cause intermittent pain that may radiate to the back and can also lead to changes in urination patterns. If you have a history of kidney stones or risk factors for them, this could be a consideration.

3. Musculoskeletal Issues: Chronic back pain could be due to muscle strain or other musculoskeletal problems, which may not be related to your urinary symptoms but could be exacerbated by frequent trips to the bathroom or changes in posture.

4. Diabetes: If you have not been screened for diabetes, it may be worthwhile to check your blood sugar levels, as diabetes can lead to increased urination and may also cause neuropathic pain that could be perceived as back pain.

Given your ongoing symptoms and the lack of improvement, it would be advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider who can perform a comprehensive evaluation. This may include imaging studies, further urine analysis, or blood tests to assess kidney function and rule out diabetes or other metabolic conditions.

In conclusion, while there may be a connection between your frequent urination and lower back pain, it is essential to explore all potential causes thoroughly. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking a second opinion or further evaluation from a nephrologist or urologist may be beneficial. It’s crucial to advocate for your health and ensure that all avenues are explored to find the underlying cause of your symptoms.

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