[26F] Experiencing left side pain and frequent urination

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is an infection in any part of your urinary system — your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, but some are caused by viruses and fungi. UTIs are more common in women than men. They can occur at any age but are more common in people who are sexually active, pregnant, or menopausal. The frequent need to urinate and pain in the side are common symptoms of a UTI.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection and pain relievers to ease discomfort.

• Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract. Symptoms include severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs, pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin, and frequent urination.

  • Treatment may include pain relievers and drinking lots of water to help pass the stone. Medical procedures may be needed to remove or break up larger stones.

• Sciatica: This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down to your legs, is irritated or compressed. It can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in your lower back, hip, and leg.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy and pain relievers. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following:

1. Drink plenty of water to help flush out any potential infection or kidney stones.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with the pain.
3. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity that may worsen your pain.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your pain becomes severe or unbearable
• If you notice blood in your urine
• If you develop a fever or chills
• If you have difficulty urinating or experience extreme discomfort when urinating

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.