[42F] Experiencing persistent flank pain, nausea, and headache

What might be happening

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

• 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 (flank pain), nausea, and abdominal pain. Given your history of nephrostomy tubes, you may be at a higher risk for kidney stones.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relief and drinking lots of fluids to help pass the stone. In some cases, medical procedures may be necessary to remove or break up larger stones.

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. UTIs can cause flank pain, abdominal pain, and nausea. Your history of bladder cancer and current nephrostomy tubes may increase your risk for UTIs.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection.

• Pyelonephritis: This is a type of urinary tract infection where one or both kidneys become infected. It can cause flank pain, abdominal pain, and nausea.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

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

What you can do

Given the severity of your symptoms and your medical history, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In the meantime, here are some things you can do:

1. Drink plenty of fluids: This can help flush bacteria out of your urinary system and may help pass a kidney stone if that's the cause of your symptoms.

2. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help alleviate your pain. However, they should not be used as a substitute for seeking medical attention.

3. Rest: Try to get plenty of rest to help your body recover.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen
• You develop a fever or chills
• You notice blood in your urine
• Your pain becomes severe or unbearable

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you provided. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms in person.