Will kidney infection cause back pain?

Question

Hello doctor,

I went to the ER two days ago due to excruciating pain in my back, which I thought was caused by herniated disc. I have received a steroid injection and pain medication. This morning I noticed the pain has moved upward towards my kidneys. Could this be a kidney infection? Please note that this pain was the worst I ever experienced. I was in tears for two days. Please help me.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. Such immediate terrible pain might be caused by both herniated disc and urinary tract problems such as kidney stones, urinary tract infection, etc. Have any tests or examinations been conducted in the emergency room (ER)? To narrow down the underlying cause, I recommend a few straightforward examinations. A direct x-ray of the spine and urinary tract can provide valuable insights. Additionally, consider undergoing abdominal and urinary tract ultrasound examinations. A complete urine count would also yield significant information. Although painkillers are typically used in both scenarios for treatment, each case may require distinct additional medications.