Renal Tenderness - An Overview

Introduction:

The kidneys are paired organs in the abdomen. They help in the removal of waste from the body. Removal of excess water from the body and electrolyte balance are the other main functions of the organ. They also produce hormones that help in the regulation of blood pressure and the production of red blood cells. Pain or tenderness in the kidneys may not be limited to issues with the kidneys alone. It can be related to the urinary tract as well.

What Is Renal Tenderness?

Pain in the sides or around the lower back can indicate kidney issues. There can be a dull and constant or sudden and sharp pain. This may indicate an infection in the kidney or kidney stones. It is essential to seek medical assistance to know the exact condition and get it treated before it worsens.

There can be pain in both sides of the abdomen or one side. There are chances that it is misunderstood as back pain. Understanding the difference between back and renal pain will help to seek medical help for the right cause. Back pain occurs in the region extending from the middle of the back and spinal area to the lower back. It is a stabbing pain that can worsen while trying to lift something heavy or bending down. At times, it can spread to the legs.

On the other hand, if the pain is due to kidney issues, it occurs in the higher back, and the pain is felt deeper. The pain associated with the kidneys is felt mostly under the ribs or to a side- to the right or the left of the spine. It is not likely to go away or feel better with rest. Sometimes, it can spread to the lower abdomen or the groin area.

What Are the Causes of Renal Tenderness?

The kidneys are connected to the ureter and the bladder. A problem with any of these can cause pain in the kidneys. The most common possible causes can include;

• Kidney Stones: This is one of the most common causes of kidney tenderness. A build-up of mineral salts in the kidneys. It can be as small as a grain of sand or big as a pearl. Small ones usually leave the body on their own. On the other hand, larger stones might not be able to pass on their own and cause much pain and discomfort.

• Retention of Urine: This happens when the bladder is not emptied. The urine flows back to the kidneys, increasing the pressure in the kidneys.

• Vesicoureteral Reflex(VUR): This causes the backward flow of urine from the bladder. It is common in babies though it can happen to anyone.

• Ureteropelvic Obstruction: When there is an obstruction at the area where the kidneys join the ureter, there can be pain in the abdomen. It can radiate to the thighs and groin.

• Ureteral Stricture: A narrowing of the ureter is called a ureteral stricture.

• Pyelonephritis: An infection of the kidneys is termed pyelonephritis. Fever, chills, nausea, etc., can be associated with it.

• Polycystic Kidney Disease: This is an inherited condition with kidney cysts. A cyst is a fluid-filled sac. When the cyst enlarges, it can cause the kidney to become swollen and painful.

• Injury: Injury to the kidney can be due to trauma during some sports, accidents, or some blunt force causing pain. This can cause blood in urine and leakage of urine.

• Renal Cancer: One of the most common types of cancer seen in the kidneys is renal cell carcinoma. There can be pain in the abdomen and blood in the urine.

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): The pain in the lower abdomen can also be associated with urinary tract infections.

• Dehydration: Not drinking a sufficient amount of water can cause pain in the abdominal area.

What Are the Symptoms of Renal Tenderness?

Depending upon the condition, there can be a difference in symptoms from person to person. However, the commonly seen symptoms can include;

• Continuous dull pain in the back.

• A pain in the sides of the abdomen or under the ribcage.

• Pain that radiates to the groin.

• Severe sharp pain that comes on and off.

• Nausea.

• Vomiting.

• Pain while passing urine.

• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine can indicate an infection in the kidneys.

• Hematuria (the presence of blood in urine).

• Fever.

• Chills.

How to Diagnose Renal Tenderness?

The condition is diagnosed based on the tests done after taking the patient’s history. The tests will include the following;

1. Urinalysis: A urinalysis will test the presence of blood, white blood cells, proteins, etc. The presence of blood or white blood cells can indicate an infection.

2. Imaging Tests: An ultrasound or CT is done to check the structure of the kidneys and the urinary system. It can also detect the presence of any stones or obstructions.

3. Cytology: It is used for screening cancer cells from urine.

How Is Renal Tenderness Managed?

The pain associated with the kidneys should never be neglected. It should be diagnosed and treated properly on time to prevent further complications. At-home remedies can include;

1. Staying Hydrated: Drinking a lot of water helps to flush out any microorganisms that may cause pain. It can help to prevent the formation of stones as well.

2. Heat Application: Heat application can help to relieve the pain.

3. Pain-killers: Over-the-counter painkillers can help to relieve the pain. However, it should not be continued whenever the pain occurs. Rather, medical attention should be given to know the cause, and proper treatments should be given.

Conclusion:

Renal tenderness can have many causes, like a kidney stone, an infection in the kidney, or can be signs of an injury. It can occur on both sides, back, or below the ribs. At times they can radiate to the groins. It can indicate something wrong with the associated organs. Medical help must be sought, and the condition should be diagnosed and treated properly to prevent complications. Even small urinary tract infections, if not treated properly, can cause sepsis and kidney damage.