[37F] Experiencing left-sided lower back and abdominal pain with frequent urination

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is a common condition that can cause lower abdominal pain, back pain, and frequent urination. UTIs are more common in women and can be caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.

• Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain in the back or side, frequent urination, and sometimes even blood in the urine.

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

• Interstitial Cystitis: This is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain and sometimes pelvic pain, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. It can cause a frequent urge to urinate and discomfort during urination.

  • Treatment can involve medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

Please note that these are potential explanations for your symptoms, but only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

While waiting for your appointment with a healthcare professional, you can do the following to help manage your symptoms:

1. Drink plenty of water: This can help flush bacteria out of your urinary system, which may reduce symptoms if you have a UTI.
2. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods: These can irritate your bladder and worsen your symptoms.
3. Use a heating pad: Applying a heating pad to your lower abdomen can help reduce bladder pressure and relieve pain.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain
• Blood in your urine
• Fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate and helpful information, I'm not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.