Flank pain

Flank pain is a discomfort or sensation of pain in the part of the body below the rib and above the ilium, often referred to as the flank. It is often associated with the kidneys due to their location in this area.

Causes

Flank pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, diseases, or injuries. Some of the most common causes include:

• Kidney stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain when they move through the urinary tract.
• Urinary tract infection (UTI): This is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.
• Pyelonephritis: This is a type of urinary tract infection where one or both kidneys become infected.
• Musculoskeletal problems: These are issues related to the muscles, bones, and joints. They can cause flank pain if the muscles or bones in the flank area are injured or inflamed.
• Renal colic: This is a type of pain you get when urinary stones block part of your urinary tract.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of flank pain typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. Additional tests may be required to confirm the cause of the pain, such as:

• Urinalysis: This is a test of your urine. It can detect and measure various compounds that pass through the urine.
• Blood tests: These can help identify any infections or conditions that might be causing the flank pain.
• Imaging tests: These might include an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to help visualize the organs and structures in the flank area.

Treatment

Treatment for flank pain depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

• Pain medication: Over-the-counter or prescription medication may be used to manage pain.
• Antibiotics: If the flank pain is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of the flank pain.

See also

• Abdominal pain
• Back pain
• Kidney disease

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