Right-sided loin pain

The loin is the area between the lower ribs and the hip, toward the side or back. Pain that comes in waves and travels towards the groin can occur with a kidney stone. A steady ache with fever, chills, nausea or painful urination can occur with a kidney infection. Burning urine, urgency or frequent trips to the toilet may point to a urinary tract infection, although urinary symptoms can be absent. Pain that changes with movement, lifting or pressing the muscles may have a musculoskeletal cause.

The location alone cannot identify the cause. A clinician may ask about urine changes, bowel symptoms, injury, pregnancy possibility and medicines, then examine you and arrange urine or imaging tests when needed.

Arrange medical advice if the pain persists, returns, or is accompanied by urinary symptoms. Drink normally unless a clinician has advised a fluid restriction, and avoid taking leftover antibiotics. Keep track of the pain's timing, severity, movement, urine colour, temperature and any vomiting. Simple pain relief may be suitable for some people, but check the label or ask a pharmacist if you have kidney disease, ulcers, pregnancy or regular medicines.

Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening pain, fever with shaking chills, repeated vomiting, blood in the urine, inability to pass urine, faintness, or pain during pregnancy. These features can signal infection, blockage or another problem requiring prompt treatment.

Ask whether the pain fits a kidney, urinary or muscle problem, whether urine testing or imaging is appropriate, which pain medicines are safe for you, and what change should bring you back urgently.