Severe Left Lower Back Pain: Possible Kidney Issues Explained

Severe pain in the lower left back?

Hello Dr.
Hsu,
I have consulted you in the past regarding various health issues, and I truly appreciate your thorough and warm explanations.
I am reaching out again with some questions, hoping not to take up too much of your valuable time.
Recently, I have been experiencing severe soreness in the left lower back area, to the point where standing for about three minutes becomes unbearable.
Could this be related to kidney deficiency or a similar issue? For the past month, I have also been dealing with frequent urination and prostate-related problems, which led me to visit a urologist twice.
I underwent X-rays, blood tests, and urinalysis.
Last week, I received my test results and was prescribed medication for the prostate, which I have been taking for over a month now.

I have attached my test results for your review.
Here are the diagnoses:
1.
600.0 - Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
2.
788.43 - Nocturia
3.
780.52 - Insomnia
4.
592.0 - Kidney Stones
5.
302.70 - Sexual Dysfunction
Additionally, I had a Biochemistry-3 (Endocrine Test) done, which showed Testosterone levels at 271 ng/dl, and a Serology-1 (Serological Test) for PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) at 0.49.
The doctor mentioned that I have low testosterone levels and administered a testosterone injection.
He did not comment much on my PSA value, as he seemed busy, and scheduled a follow-up appointment in three weeks.
Upon reviewing my results, I noticed the diagnosis of "Kidney Stones" (592).
Could this be the cause of my severe left lower back pain? If I have kidney stones, will surgery be necessary, or can it be treated with medication?
I would greatly appreciate your guidance on this matter.
Thank you very much!
(I eagerly await your prompt response.)

Shī Gōng Yǔ, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/04/28

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, first of all, I would like to clarify that the diagnosis mentioned above is merely a suspicion and not a definitive diagnosis.
This means that due to various factors, general physicians often need to consider multiple diagnoses and arrange for several tests to reach a final confirmation.
In this process, many diagnoses may not reflect your actual disease.
Therefore, the diagnosis generated by the computer should only be regarded as a reference or as part of the physician's thought process.

The PSA-T level of 0.49 is within the normal range.
Generally, kidney stones do not change due to prolonged standing or changes in posture.
I believe the discomfort may be related to muscle soreness in the lower back or possibly nerve compression.
If the pain persists, it would be advisable to consult a rehabilitation specialist or an orthopedic physician to determine if the symptoms are related to these issues.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can further discuss and research the matter.

Sincerely,
Department of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare
Director Xu Wei-Kai

Reply Date: 2010/04/28

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your left lower back pain and its possible connection to kidney issues. Based on the information you've provided, it appears that you have been experiencing significant discomfort in your left lower back, which has been exacerbated by your recent urinary symptoms and prostate issues.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that lower back pain can arise from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, nerve compression, and organ-related problems, such as those involving the kidneys. Given your history of frequent urination and the diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), it is plausible that these factors could be contributing to your discomfort.

Your mention of kidney stones (diagnosed as 592.0) is particularly noteworthy. Kidney stones can cause severe pain, often described as a sharp, cramping sensation that may radiate to the lower back, abdomen, or groin. This pain typically occurs when a stone moves within the kidney or passes into the ureter, leading to obstruction and irritation. The left-sided pain you are experiencing could indeed be related to the presence of kidney stones, especially if the stone is located in the left kidney or ureter.

In terms of treatment, the management of kidney stones depends on their size, location, and the severity of symptoms. Smaller stones may pass on their own with increased fluid intake and pain management, while larger stones or those causing significant obstruction may require medical intervention. This could include procedures such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), ureteroscopy, or, in some cases, surgical intervention. It is crucial to discuss these options with your urologist, who can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific situation.

Additionally, your test results indicate low testosterone levels, which can contribute to various symptoms, including fatigue, mood changes, and possibly even discomfort in the pelvic region. While testosterone replacement therapy may help alleviate some of these symptoms, it is essential to monitor your overall health and ensure that any treatment aligns with your medical history and current conditions.

Regarding your concerns about kidney function, it is reassuring that your recent tests did not indicate any acute kidney issues. However, persistent pain and urinary symptoms warrant further evaluation. If your left lower back pain continues to worsen or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or changes in urinary habits, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, your left lower back pain could be related to kidney stones, and it is essential to follow up with your urologist for a comprehensive evaluation and management plan. Additionally, addressing your testosterone levels may also be beneficial for your overall well-being. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further clarification and guidance on your treatment options.

Wishing you a swift recovery and improved health.

Best regards.

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