Flank pain on the left side of the body

The left flank lies between the lower ribs and hip and includes muscles, the left kidney, bowel and nerves. A kidney infection commonly presents with flank pain and may also bring fever, chills, nausea or urinary changes. Kidney stones can cause strong pain that comes in waves and moves toward the lower abdomen or groin. A urinary tract infection may cause painful or frequent urination and discomfort that spreads upward. Pain made worse by bending, lifting or pressing the area can arise from the abdominal wall or back, but these clues cannot confirm a diagnosis.

Write down the start time, exact location, whether the pain travels, and any change in urine, bowel movements or appetite. Rest from lifting and observe whether gentle position changes alter the discomfort. Drink normally unless a clinician has restricted your fluids, and check with a pharmacist before taking pain medicine if you have kidney disease, stomach ulcers, pregnancy or regular medicines. Arrange a review if the pain lasts, recurs or is difficult to explain; a clinician may examine the abdomen, back and urine.

Seek urgent care for severe or escalating pain, vomiting that prevents fluids, faintness, confusion, blood in the urine, inability to pass urine, or a hard or swollen abdomen. Fever and chills with left flank pain need prompt assessment because they can occur with kidney infection. Seek early advice during pregnancy or with known kidney disease, even if the pain seems manageable.

Could the left-sided location point to a urinary, muscular or bowel cause? Do my urine symptoms require testing? Which warning signs should send me to urgent care? What activity and pain relief are suitable?