Pain in the upper right flank: what to know

The flank is the area between the ribs and hip on the side of the back. Pain that changes with twisting, lifting, or pressing the area may be muscular or related to the ribs. Colicky pain that comes in waves, possibly spreading toward the groin, can occur with kidney stones. A kidney infection may cause a steady flank ache with fever, chills, nausea, or urinary symptoms. Burning urine, frequent urination, or cloudy urine can occur with a urinary tract infection. Right-sided upper pain can also come from the gallbladder, lungs, or skin, so location alone cannot identify the cause.

Note whether the pain is constant or wave-like, and record fever, vomiting, urine changes, bowel symptoms, rash, cough, or breathlessness. Drink normally unless a clinician has advised fluid restriction; forcing large amounts of fluid may worsen discomfort if urine flow is blocked. Avoid strenuous lifting until a muscle cause is clearer. A clinician may examine your abdomen and back, check urine, and decide whether imaging is needed. Arrange a GP review if the pain lasts, returns, or is paired with urinary symptoms.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or rapidly increasing pain, fever with flank pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, confusion, blood in the urine, or difficulty passing urine. Pain with breathlessness or chest symptoms also needs prompt assessment. A blocked urinary system combined with infection can become serious, so do not wait for home measures to work.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest a urinary, muscular, digestive, or respiratory source; whether urine testing or an ultrasound is appropriate; and which pain medicines are safe for you. Mention pregnancy possibility, kidney problems, previous stones, and every medicine you take.