Flank pain what it can mean

Overview

Flank pain is pain or discomfort on one side of your body, between your lower ribs and your hip. It often comes from problems with the kidneys or urinary system, but can also be caused by muscles or bones in that area.

Yes, flank pain is quite common. Many people experience it at some point, often due to kidney stones, a urinary tract infection, or a muscle strain.

Flank pain can affect people of all ages, but it happens more often in adults, especially those between 30 and 60 years old. People with a history of kidney stones, urinary infections, or dehydration are at higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Dull ache or sharp, stabbing pain on one side of the back or side
• Pain that comes in waves or gets worse with movement
• Pain that travels to the lower belly or groin area
• Pain when urinating or needing to urinate often
• Cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
• Fever or chills (if infection is present)

Symptoms in children

• Fussiness or crying more than usual
• Pain that makes them bend over or hold their side
• Wetting the bed or having accidents if they are already toilet trained
• Fever without a clear cause

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain that is less sharp but more constant, or confusion due to infection
• Changes in urination, such as leaking or not being able to empty the bladder
• Fever or low body temperature
• Loss of appetite or feeling generally unwell

Causes

Main causes

• Kidney stones – hard deposits that form in the kidney and can block the urinary tract
• Urinary tract infection (UTI) or kidney infection (pyelonephritis)
• Muscle strain or injury to the back or side
• Shingles – a painful rash that can affect one side of the body
• Other less common causes: kidney cysts, tumors, or swelling of the kidney (hydronephrosis)

Risk factors

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Severe pain that comes on suddenly and makes you unable to function
• Pain with fever, chills, or shaking
• Blood in your urine that is clearly visible
• You cannot urinate or have very little urine

Book a routine appointment if:

• Mild to moderate flank pain that lasts more than a day or two

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your pain, your medical history, and do a physical exam. They will check your back and belly and may press gently on the area to see where it hurts.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test (urinalysis) to look for infection, blood, or crystals
• Blood tests to check kidney function and signs of infection
• Imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray to see the kidneys, ureters, and bladder

What to expect at your appointment

Most tests are painless and done in a clinic or hospital. You might need to give a urine sample and have blood drawn. If an infection is found, treatment often starts quickly. For kidney stones, you may be referred to a specialist.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of the flank pain. For most causes, the goal is to relieve symptoms, treat any infection, and prevent future problems. Many causes can be managed at home with simple measures.

Self-care at home

• Rest the area – avoid heavy lifting or twisting movements
• Apply a heating pad or warm compress to the painful area for 15-20 minutes at a time
• Drink plenty of water – aim for 6-8 glasses a day unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (check with your pharmacist that they are safe for you)

Medical treatments

If a bacterial infection is causing the pain, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection. For kidney stones, pain may be managed with stronger medication, and sometimes a procedure is needed to break up or remove the stone. For muscle strains, physical therapy or muscle relaxants may be recommended. Do not take any medication without first consulting your healthcare provider.

Living with this condition

Most people with flank pain recover fully once the cause is treated. If you have a chronic condition like repeated kidney stones, you may need to make long-term changes to prevent recurrence.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay well hydrated by drinking water throughout the day
• Limit foods high in salt, such as processed snacks and canned soups
• Maintain a healthy weight through balanced eating and regular physical activity
• Avoid holding your urine for long periods – empty your bladder when you feel the urge

Diet and exercise

A diet low in salt and animal protein may help prevent kidney stones. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Gentle exercise like walking is fine once you feel better, but avoid heavy lifting until your doctor says it is safe.

Prevention

Many causes of flank pain can be prevented by staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and practicing good hygiene to avoid urinary tract infections. There is no guaranteed way to prevent all cases.

Vaccines

Vaccinations for shingles (if you are over 50) can reduce the risk of getting shingles, which can cause flank pain. Ask your healthcare provider if you are eligible.

Screening programmes

Routine screening for kidney stones or other causes of flank pain is not recommended for most people. If you have a family history or recurrent problems, your doctor may suggest periodic check-ups.

Complications

If left untreated

• Kidney infection can spread to the bloodstream and become life-threatening (sepsis)
• Large kidney stones can block the flow of urine and damage the kidney
• Chronic kidney disease if the underlying cause is not addressed

Long-term outlook

The outlook for flank pain is generally very good. Most causes are treatable, and with proper care, people recover fully. If you have a chronic condition like kidney stones, you can manage it with lifestyle changes and follow-up care. Seek medical help early to avoid serious problems.

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