Question:
Why does my kidney hurt?

Im 3 weeks post-op as of yesterday and I have been in enough pain in the left kidney area. After about 2-3 hours sitting the pain travels to that *left side* that everyone and who they know talk about with the Lap RNY. I was worried about my fluid intake and the doctor seems to think that it's ok that I am not getting in anywhere near 64 oz, b/c I am still so new post op. I dont know if I agree with him, but getting it in is really hard. Can this be dehydration, or should I think its the healing from the surgery? Lap is so tricky... you think you are fine, but you are still so vulnerable, and I forget that when I feel good. Thanks again for the listen. Sigh... not pleased at all..    — Rachel *. (posted on December 11, 2001)

December 11, 2001
Stacy: Hi! Sorry to hear that you are experiencing pains in this area... Is it under your shoulder blades? I experienced this kind of 'gas pain' and thought it *could* be my kidneys as well... I had a lap BPD/DS (a different surgery than you), but I know that all lap surgeries have a residual gas problem because they must fill your belly with gas in order to perform the surgery. I think it's pretty common to experience this kind of upper back/mid back pain (especially in the shoulder area or below it). If it doesn't progress, does stop (ie. - isn't constant), then it most likely isn't a leak or blockage. If you're drinking well (which is seems that you are), then I don't think it's your kidney function per se... At three weeks post-op, it could be residual gas pains. Do you notice it when you eat or is there no connection to eating? Hope you feel better soon.... All the best, (lap ds with gallbladder removal, January 25, 2001, preop: 307 lbs/bmi 45, now: 198 lbs/bmi 28/size sweet 16 but squeezin' into a 14! LOL),
   — Teresa N.

December 11, 2001
Have you been checked for a possible kidney stone?
   — garyzgurl

August 4, 2002
At 3mo post op I thought I was having kidney proplems on my left side and I also had some bumps that itched. I found out from the doctor that I had Shingles. I sure though it was my kidneys it hurt really bad. The doctor gave me medication to take (pills).
   — Karen A.