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What Causes Lower Left Flank Pain?

Posted on Wed, 11 Feb 2015

Question: My husband has sporatic pain in his lower left side, hard to stand up or sit down. I made an appointment to see a BACK Ortho doctor not available for TWO weeks. Could this in any way be 'related' to any potential kidney stone problem. He is 85 years old . I didn't realize there was a charge in getting an answer - how much IS that charge.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Kidney stone can present in this manner, needs to be confirmed

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome

I appreciate your concern

Yes, lower left flank or back pain can be associated with Urinary tract stone disease. It could be due to a back problem/spinal nerve compression or a pulled muscle but would require a physical exam to have a better idea.

To confirm a kidney stone an X ray KUB and an Ultrasound Abdomen and pelvis is usually sufficient. Urine R/E should also be done to look for RBCs, usually associated with nephrolithiasis. Treatment would depend on the size of the stone. Less than 5 mm stones are able to pass spontaneously. Larger ones require operative removal. Kindly discuss the charges issues with the administrative setup.

wishing you best of health

Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action.

Dr. M.S. Khalil

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (1 hour later)

What is X ray KUB and what is URine R/E When you respond you cannot assume you are talking to someone who KNOW those abbreviations. IF there were pain, would it be continuous - his is periodical, as I said and when he is 'resting' he has no discomfort at all.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
KUB ( Kidney Ureter Bladder) R/E Routine Examination.

Detailed Answer:
hello again,

I am sorry for your distress. X Ray KUB means X ray that includes Kidneys , ureter and bladder areas. Urine R/E means Urine Routine Examination.

Spasmodic pain periodically, further indicates a urinary tract problem rather than a back issue.

Please contact the forum administration team for details regarding follow up questions.

Thanks.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj