A urinary tract infection (UTI) can cause pain while urinating and may also cause an uncomfortable pain in the lower back and abdomen. It can vary from a mild intermittent cramping pain in the abdomen to continuous pain. When the urinary tract infection spreads and affects the kidney, it causes flank pain, too. Flank pain refers to the discomfort in the upper abdomen, back, and sides. It develops in the area below the ribs and above the pelvic area. Usually, the pain is worse on one side of the body. Constant or severe flank pain may indicate a serious medical condition, like urinary tract infection:

1. Cramps

Very often, if you have cramps in the abdomen or lower back pain, you do not associate it with a urinary tract infection. You assume it to be gas or menstrual pain. Lower back pain may be suspected to be a catch or a muscle spasm. Do not neglect this pain, especially if it is combined with pain and burning sensation while urinating and a cloudy, foul-smelling urine. Pain, along with fever and chills, is another definite symptom of UTI. If you feel severe pain, the condition can be severe.

2. Flank pain vs. general back pain

You should learn to distinguish between general back pain and back pain due to urinary tract infection. This will help you understand the condition better and treat it accordingly. Back pain generally can be experienced anywhere in the lower and upper back and glute muscles. Back pain is generally caused by strains and sprains that can damage the muscles or ligaments in the back. This can be due to lifting heavy objects, sports injuries, or much stress on the back. If the pain is associated with the kidneys it can cause pain on both sides of the lower back and will be concentrated in the area between the ribs and hips, which is why kidney infection pain is often referred to as flank pain. Additional areas that may have pain are the upper abdomen and genital areas.

3. Pressure and tenderness

Another major difference between general back pain and pain caused due to urinary tract infection is that back pain may come and go depending on whether you strain the area or are in the same position for long periods. There may be tenderness in the area where the pain is. Pain caused due to UTI will be constant and can be mild or severe depending on the source of the infection. An increase in pain can be triggered by excessive intake of fluids or when pressure is applied to the kidneys.

4. Other symptoms of UTI

If you suspect to have pain due to urinary tract infection, it will be confirmed with the presence of the other symptoms of the infection. You must see the doctor right away. Depending on the severity of the infection, you may be prescribed oral or intravenous antibiotics. Sometimes, hospital stay is advised to speed up recovery.