Medically reviewed by Mr Maneesh Ghei, Consultant Urological Surgeon (GMC: 5208045)

Understanding what kidney pain feels like is important — it can be easy to mistake for ordinary back pain, but the two are quite different. Kidney pain typically sits deeper, higher in the back, and can be constant or come in waves depending on the cause. This guide explains what does kidney pain feel like, where it occurs, how long it lasts, and when you need to see a specialist.

What does kidney pain feel like?

Kidney pain is most often described as a deep, dull ache or a sharp, stabbing sensation, depending on what is causing it. It is located in the flank area — below the ribcage, to one or both sides of the spine. In some cases, the pain radiates to the lower abdomen, groin, or inner thigh.

Key features that distinguish kidney pain from ordinary back pain:

• Location: Higher in the back than typical muscle pain — between the lower ribs and the top of the pelvis
• Consistent: Usually constant rather than coming and going with movement
• Character: Can be a dull throb (infection) or intense, colicky waves (kidney stones)
• Associated symptoms: Often accompanied by urinary symptoms, fever, nausea, or blood in the urine

Kidney pain caused by a kidney stone tends to be severe and comes in intense waves as the stone moves. Pain from a kidney infection is more likely to be a steady ache, often with fever and chills.

Where is kidney pain located?

The kidneys sit at the back of the abdominal cavity, one on each side of the spine, just below the lower ribs. Kidney pain is therefore typically felt in the costovertebral angle — the angle formed by the lower rib and the spine.

If you press firmly on this area and it is tender, that is a clinical sign worth investigating. Pain can also radiate:

• Around to the front of the abdomen
• Down into the groin or testicles (if a kidney stone is moving along the ureter)
• Into the lower back (which is why kidney pain is often confused with back pain)

Kidney pain vs back pain: how to tell the difference

This is one of the most common questions. The table below outlines the key differences:

If you have any doubt, or if the pain is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or urinary symptoms, it is worth getting a medical opinion rather than waiting to see if it resolves.

Common causes of kidney pain

Kidney stones

Kidney stones are one of the most common causes of severe kidney pain. These are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form within the kidneys. As a stone moves through the urinary tract, it causes intense, colicky pain in waves — often described as among the worst pain a person can experience. Other symptoms include blood in the urine, nausea, vomiting, and a persistent urge to urinate.

Kidney infection (pyelonephritis)

A kidney infection is typically caused by bacteria travelling up from the bladder. The pain tends to be a steady ache rather than the sharp waves of a stone. It is usually accompanied by fever, chills, urinary symptoms, and fatigue. Kidney infections require prompt antibiotic treatment — left untreated, they can progress to serious complications including sepsis.

Kidney blockage (obstruction)

A blockage in the urinary tract — caused by stones, scar tissue, tumours, or anatomical abnormalities — prevents urine from draining properly. This builds pressure in the kidney and causes pain and swelling. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve medications, procedures, or surgery.

Kidney cancer

While less common, kidney pain can be a sign of kidney cancer or other tumours. The pain tends to be persistent rather than coming in waves. Other signs include unexplained weight loss, blood in the urine, fatigue, and anaemia. Early detection is important for the best outcomes.

How long does kidney pain last?

How long kidney pain lasts depends entirely on the cause:

• Kidney stone pain can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the size of the stone and whether it passes on its own. Once the stone passes, the pain typically resolves quickly. Larger stones may require intervention.
• Kidney infection pain usually improves within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotics, though full recovery can take 1-2 weeks. If it is not improving, further investigation is needed.
• Kidney blockage pain will persist until the obstruction is relieved.
• Persistent, unexplained kidney pain lasting more than a few days should always be investigated. Do not assume it will resolve on its own.

If your pain has lasted more than a day or two, or is accompanied by any other symptoms, it is worth getting it assessed rather than waiting.

When should you see a doctor about kidney pain?

You should seek medical attention if kidney pain is accompanied by any of the following:

• Fever or chills — which may indicate infection
• Blood in the urine (haematuria) — even if painless
• Nausea or vomiting alongside flank pain
• Pain that does not improve within 24-48 hours
• Difficulty urinating or reduced urine output
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue alongside pain

Go to A&E immediately if you have a high fever with shaking chills, are unable to keep fluids down, or feel acutely unwell. These can be signs of a serious kidney infection or sepsis.

For non-emergency assessments, a private urologist can assess your symptoms quickly and arrange an ultrasound or CT scan within days. The NHS guidance on kidney infections also advises seeking medical help if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does kidney pain feel like compared to back pain?

Kidney pain is typically felt deeper and higher than muscle back pain — in the flank area below the ribs. It does not usually improve or worsen with movement, and is often accompanied by urinary symptoms, fever, or nausea. Muscle back pain tends to ease with rest and worsens with activity.

Can kidney pain come and go?

Yes. Kidney stone pain classically comes in waves (called renal colic) as the stone moves through the ureter. Kidney infection pain tends to be more constant. If you are experiencing recurring episodes of flank pain, it is worth getting investigated.

How long does kidney pain last?

This depends on the cause. Kidney stone pain typically lasts a few hours to several days. Infection pain should improve within 48 hours of antibiotics. Any kidney pain persisting beyond a few days without a clear cause should be assessed by a doctor.

Can you have kidney pain without urinary symptoms?

Yes. Some kidney conditions — including kidney cancer and certain types of blockage — can cause flank pain without obvious urinary changes. This is why persistent or unexplained kidney pain should always be investigated, even if you have no urinary symptoms.

Is kidney pain always serious?

Not always, but it should not be ignored. A kidney infection caught early is very treatable. A kidney stone can often pass on its own. However, both can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Persistent or severe kidney pain always warrants assessment.

Can a private urologist help with kidney pain?

Yes. A private urologist can see you quickly, arrange appropriate imaging (ultrasound or CT), and diagnose the cause of your kidney pain without a long wait. Mr Maneesh Ghei sees patients at The Wellington Hospital, London, with same-week availability and no GP referral required. Book a consultation online or call 020 3325 4699.

About the Author

Mr Maneesh Ghei, Consultant Urological Surgeon (GMC: 5208045)

Mr Maneesh Ghei is a consultant urological surgeon with NHS and private practice across four London hospitals. He specialises in the diagnosis and management of kidney stones, kidney infections, urinary tract conditions, prostate conditions, and male sexual health. Mr Ghei sees new patients privately with same-week availability. No GP referral is required. Book a private urology consultation.