Do kidney problems cause back pain?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 72-year-old woman and having back pain for more than three days across the lower back and sides. It feels like inflammation. How can I tell if this is simple back pain or kidney problems? I take Lithium twice a day (bipolar) and Levothyroxine. Also Vitamins, Fiber gel tablet and occasionally Melatonin and Ativan for sleep. I have been on Lithium for over 30 years. I understand it can impact the kidneys. My liver and kidneys tested normal two months ago. I usually take Aleve for pain but yesterday, I accidentally took too much Vicodin for pain and had reactions (hot flash, nausea, and vomiting). Today I am off from all painkillers and using hot or cold compresses and rest. Kindly advice.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

If your pain is aggravated by movements and improved by rest, then it is probably due to musculoskeletal rather than kidney problems. One of the tests to find out is to do a urine test to find out if there are signs of infection or blood. You mentioned that you have fatigue. And in this case, I would recommend that you visit your doctor to have blood tests and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of your back as soon as possible.