Some kidney problems develop when an infection spreads from the bladder. Kidney disease can also be genetic or occur as a result of a problem with another organ. Anyone who has flank pain and other symptoms of kidney problems, such as urinary symptoms, should see a doctor. Kidney pain usually only appears on the same side of the body as the affected kidney.
When an infection or disease affects both kidneys, a person may experience pain on both sides. Shingles is an infection that causes a painful, blistering rash. Anyone who has had chickenpox can develop shingles, though this infection is more common in older people and people with a weakened immune system. Shingles usually begins as a deep burning feeling or prickly pain from the nervous system.
Over several days, a rash of fluid-filled blisters appears. In some people, shingles can be very severe and cause life-threatening infections. People living with HIV , those taking immunosuppressants, and older people should see a doctor immediately if they think that they have shingles.
As shingles usually affects just one side of the body, people will notice symptoms in either the left or right flank but not both. The pancreas and liver sit deep within the abdomen, just under the rib cage.
Sometimes, problems with these organs cause flank pain. The pain can also radiate to the back. As the liver and pancreas work together to help the body digest food, a problem with one organ may eventually affect the other. Many different health issues can affect the pancreas and liver.
Some of these, such as blocked bile ducts due to gallstones , are highly treatable. Others, including autoimmune hepatitis , are chronic diseases. Some liver and pancreas conditions become life-threatening if a person does not get treatment, but they always present with other symptoms in addition to flank pain.
Pain from problems with the pancreas or liver occurs on the right side of the body. Other symptoms include:. Spinal health issues, including spinal arthritis or herniated discs , may cause pain that radiates to the flank. Spinal arthritis is a type of chronic inflammation of the vertebrae. Disc diseases cause swelling and pain in the discs that cushion the bones of the spine.
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Important Phone Numbers. When should you call for help? Where can you learn more? Top of the page. Your Care Instructions Flank pain is pain on the side of the back just below the rib cage and above the waist. How can you care for yourself at home? Rest until you feel better. Take pain medicines exactly as directed. If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen Tylenol , ibuprofen Advil, Motrin , or naproxen Aleve. Read and follow all instructions on the label. If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Flank pain can be tricky to diagnose and require a few different tests to pinpoint the problem. You should also call your doctor right away if you have signs of an infection, such as fever, fatigue, or body aches.
Visit the UPMC Department of Urology to learn more about these conditions, which may result in flank pain or to schedule an appointment with one of our urologists. The UPMC Department of Urology offers a wide variety of specialized care for diseases of the male and female urinary tract and the male reproductive organs.
We have a multifaceted team of physicians and researchers working together to provide the best care to both children and adults. Our team is nationally renowned for expertise in highly specialized technologies and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Share this on: Updated January 12, Back pain is one of the top ailments that leads people to call their doctors. What Causes Flank Pain? Never Miss a Beat! Tap Click to Join! I understand that I may opt out of receiving such communications at any time.
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