Definitions

Renal colic

When to make a doctor’s appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Constant, dull, one-sided pain in back or side
• Fever, body aches, and fatigue
• Increase in urinary frequency or urgency
• Pain with urination

Description

Pain on either side of the lower back that's often due to kidney stones and is usually wavelike and intense and spreads to the stomach area or groin.

Self-care

While seeking medical care, stay hydrated and place a heating pad or a warm cloth on the painful area. Take pain relief medicines sold without a prescription.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a healthcare professional right away if the pain:

• Happens along with blood in the urine, less urination or fever.
• Is so serious that it causes a person to pace, writhe or keep changing position.

When to make a doctor's appointment

See a healthcare professional if the pain:

• Comes and goes, and then becomes constant.
• Happens along with upset stomach or vomiting.
• Happens along with painful or frequent urination.