could a pain in my side be kidney related?

[talkhealth]

Over the last few months I have had a constant low grade pain in my side… a hot water bottle seems to get rid of it for a while. My daughter has told me I should have my kidneys checked out – but I really don’t want to bother my GP at the moment as they are constantly telling us not to call unless a total emergency..what should I do?

[Mr Ken Anson]

I think your daughter maybe correct and certainly if the pain is severe enough to need a hot water bottle you should be checked out. The commonest cause of pain in this area is often related to the muscles and bones of the back but of course kidney pain can be the cause as well. One of the causes of this could be kidney stones and your GP could check your urine and examine you to try to establish the cause.
Hope that helps

[Mr Joe Philip]

The three likely conditions I consider when my patients report back pain are stone disease, musco-skeletal conditions and/or bowel related problems.
It would be worthwhile having a discussion with the doctor even if it would be telephonic consultation to begin with.
I have been seeing an increase in musculo-skeletal problems over the lock down periods.