There can be dozens of possible causes of back pain. More often than not, the pain comes from damage to soft tissue like muscles and ligaments. It may also be the result of nerve damage in the spinal column. Such is not always the case, however.
The actual source of the pain may be a kidney problem. Kidney stone pain, according to many people who have experienced it, is some of the worst pain you’re ever likely to feel.
So how do you know whether your back pain comes from a spinal or muscular injury versus a renal problem?
Location is your first clue. The most intense pain is likely to occur in the area between the bottom of your rib cage and the top of your hips. It is likely to happen more toward your sides and away from your spinal column.
Kidney pain is also often acute. In other words, it happens suddenly. You can go from “no pain” to “great discomfort” in a relatively short period of time.
Kidney stones are among the most common causes of back pain caused by kidney problems. Pain often occurs as these pebble-like masses move out of the kidneys and down the ureters toward the bladder. But they can also cause a blockage in the ureters, which are the slender tubes connecting the bladder and kidneys.
Another typical symptom of a kidney problem is discoloration of your urine. If it’s darker than normal, you may have a kidney or bladder issue.
Generally speaking, most people with kidney or bladder disorders feel the need to urinate more often than usual. However, when they try, they often find that not much urine is actually produced.
Individuals with kidney stones or a kidney infection often feel a stinging or burning sensation during urination too.
It’s not always necessary to have shock wave therapy or kidney removal surgery to get rid of kidney stones. Sometimes, they pass out of your body naturally in your urine stream. This is more likely to take place when you drink a lot of water. Back pain ends immediately when this happens.
Kidney stones, although they can cause extreme pain and discomfort, are not considered a threat to life.
A kidney infection, on the other hand, is extremely dangerous because it can result in kidney failure. Kidney failure can be fatal. Therefore, if you even suspect your back pain is coming from a kidney infection, it’s best to call a doctor right away.
Would you like additional articles on related subjects? Click on renal failure. Neal Kennedy is a former radio and television journalist with a special interest in health and fitness topics. You can read more of his articles about kidney conditions at http://www.kidney-problem.org.
