[52F] Experiencing bladder and lower back pain

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 — your kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra. Pain in the lower back and bladder can be a sign of a UTI.

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

• Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Pain can be severe and usually comes in waves. It can be associated with going to the bathroom, as you've described.

  • Treatment can range from pain management and drinking lots of water to medical procedures, depending on the size of the stone.

• Musculoskeletal Strain: If you've done any heavy lifting or sudden movements that could have strained your muscles, this could be causing your back pain. This wouldn't explain your bladder pain, though.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, applying heat or cold to the affected area, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

What you can do

You should definitely see a healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to alleviate your symptoms:

1. Drink plenty of water to help clear out any potential infection or kidney stones.
2. Try a warm bath or a heating pad to help with your back pain.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with your back pain, but they won't treat the underlying cause.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your pain becomes severe or unbearable
• You develop a fever
• You see blood in your urine
• You have difficulty urinating or feel a strong urge to urinate but are unable to

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the symptoms you've told me. It's really important to consult with a healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.