[27F] Experiencing severe lower back pain and urinary issues

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which includes 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.

  • Treatment usually involves antibiotics to clear the infection. Drinking plenty of water can help to flush bacteria out of your urinary system.

• Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Kidney stones can affect any part of your urinary tract. While smaller stones may not cause symptoms, larger stones can cause severe pain, urinary frequency, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.

  • Treatment can range from pain management and drinking lots of water to pass the stone, to medical procedures to remove or break up larger stones.

• Sciatica: This is a condition characterized by pain going down the leg from the lower back. This pain may go down the back, outside, or front of the leg. It is usually caused by a herniated disk in your spine pressing on the nerve roots in your lower back.

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

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Symptoms may include menstrual irregularity, excess hair growth, acne, and obesity.

  • Treatment can involve lifestyle changes such as weight loss and exercise. Medications can also be used to manage symptoms.

• Depression: You've mentioned that you were previously diagnosed with depression. The fatigue and emotional sensitivity you're experiencing could be related to this condition.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

What you can do

1. Seek immediate medical attention. The combination of your symptoms warrants a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. They may need to perform tests such as a urinalysis, blood tests, or imaging studies to determine the cause of your symptoms.
2. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can help to flush bacteria out of your urinary system and may help to prevent kidney stones.
3. Try gentle stretching exercises for your lower back. This may help to alleviate some of your back pain. However, you should stop any exercise that causes increased pain.
4. Try to maintain a healthy weight. This is particularly important if you have PCOS, as weight loss can help to regulate your menstrual cycle and improve symptoms.
5. Seek support for your mental health. If you're not currently receiving treatment for your depression, consider reaching out to a mental health professional.

What you should look out for

• If your pain becomes severe or unbearable
• If you develop a fever or chills
• If you notice blood in your urine
• If you experience sudden or severe abdominal pain
• If you have any changes in your bowel or bladder function

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.