2023-09-06 13:48:33
Have you ever been confused about whether the pain is a backache or a kidney stone? Sometimes the sensation we feel can be confusing, making it difficult to pinpoint its source.
One of the common dilemmas that many people face is distinguishing between kidney stone pain and back pain. Both conditions can cause discomfort, but they occur differently.
For this, Dr. Nitin Shrivastava, a urologist in Gurgaon and prostate cancer surgeon, explains how to distinguish between back pain and kidney stone pain, according to what the specialized medical website “onlymyhealth” reports.
Pain caused by kidney stones
Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain when they move through the urinary tract.
The main characteristics of kidney stone pain include:
Kidney stone pain usually originates within the kidneys themselves
“It often spreads to the left or right side of the lower back,” says Dr. Shrivastava.
Kidney stone pain is often described as sharp and stabbing
According to Web Md, it can be very painful and may come in waves as the stone moves.
Back pain
On the other hand, back pain can have different causes and manifest differently than kidney stone pain. Here are some key points to consider:
the site:
Back pain can occur in different areas of the back, including the lower and middle back. It is not limited to one specific region.
The nature of the pain:
Back pain is often described as dull or aching, although it can vary in severity. It may persist over time and is not characterized by the sharp, stabbing sensations associated with kidney stones.
Diffused pain:
Back pain can sometimes radiate from the lower back to the hip and thigh. However, the presence of urinary symptoms can help distinguish it from the pain of a kidney stone.
What are the differences between back pain and kidney stone pain?
To differentiate between kidney stone pain and back pain, it is necessary to consider additional symptoms and factors that include:
Urinary symptoms
Kidney stones are often associated with urinary symptoms such as blood in the urine, frequent urination, and a strong urge to urinate. If you have these symptoms along with back discomfort, you likely have kidney stones.
Pain with movement
As mentioned earlier, kidney stone pain tends to be localized to one side and may radiate downward as the stone moves through the urinary tract. Back pain can also be diffuse, but it is less likely to have the same acute and localized nature.
If you are not sure of the cause of your pain, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. He or she can perform tests such as imaging tests, urinalysis, and physical exams to determine the exact source of your discomfort.
It’s important to recognize key differences, such as the location and nature of the pain and associated symptoms, that can help you make an informed decision about seeking medical care.
Remember, timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to effectively managing kidney stones and back pain.
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