back/kidney pain?

[DieBlaueReiterin]

Hi all, I read a thread sometime over the last month where someone was asking about back/kidney pain due to too much protein, and the general consensus was that this is something that isn't often talked about openly but does happen. Private messages were offered. I have searched, but I can't remember the specific string of words that were used.

I am wondering if anyone reading this can give me any insight into this issue. For the last couple days I have been having off-and-on pain in my kidney area, and as of the last cpl hrs it has become constant and pretty sharp. I'm wondering if this could be related to atkins? Today marks 4 weeks since I have started.

I won't have health ins until september, so if anyone could give me some help, thatd be great. I never go to the dr. and would rather not unless it is some kind of severe emergency. Any thoughts? Thanks!

[jessyd88]

Re: back/kidney pain?

It could be due to excess protein and/or not drinking enough water. Sometimes it can lead to kidney stones due to excess deposits of calcium in the kidneys. It is a side affect of high protein diets.

On the other hand it may be a coincidence that the pain is in the kidney area. Maybe siatica or another back problem.

I think it would be definitely wise to go to the dr just in case..

[sadie147]

Re: back/kidney pain?

If you really think this is a kidney issue I don't think it's wise to try to self diagnose yourself through the internet, but to make a Dr.'s appointment instead.

Atkins does not cause kidney issues, but if you already had kidney issues the protein I guess could aggrevate it.

As I said, your best bet is to make a Dr.'s appointment to determine the cause.

[Chef Kevin]

Re: back/kidney pain?

I have kidney stones all the freakin time. Doesn't matter what I eat, atkins or not.

I've had 18 so far, I don't even need painkillers anymore.
I had one last week as a matter of fact.

It was funny, I thought I had a UTI (sode effect of the stones) and so I started drinking insane amounts of liquid to flush it out. But I couldn't go very much. I was cooking dinner, then a blast of pain hit as it moved! I was so happy!!

I went in and expelled my little bundle of joy.

As for the high protein diets causing it, good thing this isn't a high protein diet....
It is a high fat diet.

If your are healthy, no kidney disease, drink enough water, there is no evidence that Atkins will damage your kidneys. That is a myth that spread thru the media to the point people think it is fact.

Just like all the ketosis myths (people confusing it with ketoacidosis).

For most people, you either get kidney stones, or you don't. Even my urologist tells me that. Says my PH is a bit too low too, and that is a contributing factor. I'm always a bit acidic.

so, I guess what I am saying it, see a Dr to see if you have a real kidney issue. I't isn't the diet doing it.