How Can I Distinguish between Left Sided Kidney Pain and Other Types of Left Side Pain?

Kidney pain on one side often feels deep and is usually located in the flank area—that is, the side of your back below your ribs. It might be accompanied by symptoms such as blood in your urine, pain when you urinate, or changes in the frequency of urination. This type of pain can be constant or come in waves, especially if kidney stones are involved. Other kinds of one-sided pain, such as from muscles or nerves, are often more superficial. They may change with movement or pressing on the spot and usually do not have urinary symptoms. In some cases, conditions like Nutcracker Syndrome, where the kidney vein is compressed, can cause pain in that area. A doctor may use imaging tests like an ultrasound to see if the kidney is the cause of the pain. If you notice pain on one side of your body, especially if located in the flank area, and/or if it comes with change in urination, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor so they can determine its cause and help you get the right treatment.