Kidneys are the two bean-shaped organs located in the back of the abdomen. They play an important role in the process of excretion, i.e., removing wastes and toxins from the body. Disorders of the kidneys can cause pain in the lower abdomen or the lower back. It is difficult to differentiate between back pain and kidney pain. However, undertaking tests and noting the other accompanying signs and symptoms will help in diagnosing the exact cause of pain. ► Causes Kidney Stones This condition causes excruciating pain in lower abdomen and the back. The excess calcium and uric acid in the kidneys gets accumulated in the body in the form of stones. The stones vary in size and the pain associated varies accordingly. Difficulties and pain during urination is an identifying symptom of kidney stones. Kidney Infection Kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, is another major cause of kidney pain experienced in the morning. The bacterial infection develops when the urine seeps back into the ureter. A person suffering from kidney stone has a high risk of suffering from kidney infection. Along with severe abdominal and back pain, painful urination, chills, nausea, vomiting, fever, etc., are the other symptoms of kidney infection. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Urinary tract infection is also a bacterial infection that develops in the urinary tract. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common cause of the infection. Peculiarly, UTI is commonly found in females than males. One of the most significant symptoms of UTI is blood in urine or hematuria. Pain in flank, difficulty in urination, etc., are the other symptoms. Kidney Cancer Uncontrolled growth and multiplication of cancerous cells in the body causes cancer. The exact cause of kidney cancer is unknown, but, it is one of the most common types of cancer in the world. Frequent pain below the ribs or lower back, and blood in urine are the symptoms of kidney cancer. Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common type of kidney cancer. ► Treatment As mentioned above, consulting the doctor is essential in order to get the cause of the pain diagnosed. In case you suffer from chronic pain, fever, difficulties during urination, etc., and have a recent history of kidney diseases, you should inform your doctor immediately. Kidney stones are treated with medication or surgery, depending on the size of the stone. Bacterial infections can be cleared with prescribed antibiotics. The doctor may even prescribe medication to ease the pain. Kidney cancer is treated with typical cancer treatment methods like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. ► What to Do In order to prevent kidney diseases, make sure you undertake the following measures:

• Consult the doctor as soon as possible in case you notice any abnormality in urine (urine appearing dark yellow, foamy, smelly, etc).
• Drink lots of water and make sure to include foods with good water content (like fruits) in your daily diet.
• Consult the doctor before taking any supplements.
• In case you suffer from hypertension or diabetes, consult a doctor, and control it.
• Lastly, it is advisable to undertake tests regularly in case you have a history of kidney diseases.

Remember that pain in the kidney region should not be avoided as it can be a symptom of severe and emergency health conditions. Consulting a doctor right away is the best thing to do. Disclaimer: This article is meant only to provide information. It is not to be used as a substitute for proper medical advice.