Flank pain describes discomfort experienced in the side of the body, specifically in the area between the lower ribs and the hip. This anatomical region, also known as the lumbar region, is situated on either side of the torso, below the rib cage and above the pelvis. While often temporary, flank pain can stem from a wide array of underlying conditions.
Understanding Flank Pain
Flank pain can vary in character and intensity, presenting as a dull ache, throbbing sensation, or sharp, stabbing pain. It may be constant or intermittent, sometimes occurring in waves. While often affecting one side, it can also occur on both sides simultaneously.
Its severity ranges from mild, like a cramp, to severe, potentially causing symptoms such as shaking or vomiting. The pain’s nature and whether it radiates to areas like the lower abdomen, groin, or testicle can provide clues about its origin.
Common Reasons for Flank Pain
Several common conditions can lead to flank pain. One frequent cause is kidney stones, or nephrolithiasis. These solid masses can cause intense, sharp pain as they move through the urinary tract, often radiating from the flank to the lower abdomen and groin. The pain’s severity relates to how acutely the stone obstructs the ureter.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also cause flank pain, especially if the infection reaches the kidneys, a condition called pyelonephritis. Unlike the sudden pain of kidney stones, pyelonephritis pain is a dull ache. It is often accompanied by fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting.
Musculoskeletal issues are another source of flank pain. Muscle strains or injuries in the back or side, often from overuse or sudden movements, cause localized discomfort. This pain worsens with movement like bending or lifting, and can sometimes be reproduced by touch. Less commonly, issues with the spine or ribs, such as a fractured rib, can also cause flank pain.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek prompt medical evaluation if flank pain is severe, does not improve with rest, or suddenly becomes very intense. Certain accompanying symptoms indicate a need for urgent medical care.
These include flank pain combined with fever or chills, which can suggest an infection. Nausea and vomiting are also concerning symptoms. The presence of blood in the urine, difficulty or pain during urination, or an increased urge to urinate point to potential urinary system problems. Additionally, if flank pain develops after trauma or injury, or is associated with dizziness or a skin rash, medical consultation is advisable.
How Flank Pain is Diagnosed and Managed
When seeking medical care for flank pain, healthcare providers begin with a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. This assessment helps understand the pain’s characteristics, identify associated symptoms, and reveal contributing conditions or activities.
Diagnostic tests often include urine tests, such as a urinalysis, to check for infection, blood, or other abnormalities. Blood tests, including a complete blood count and kidney function tests, may also be performed to assess overall health and organ function, helping identify inflammation or infection.
Imaging studies visualize the flank region’s internal structures. An ultrasound can identify kidney stones or other kidney issues. For detailed images, a computed tomography (CT) scan provides comprehensive views of the urinary tract and surrounding areas, pinpointing the exact cause. Once diagnosed, management focuses on relieving pain and addressing the underlying condition.