flank pain/kidney stores

[blessings22]

I am a 41-yr-old woman.  When I was 7 months pregnant I was rushed to emergency with severe left flank pain.  It was determined that I had kidney stones.  Approximately 2 years later, it happened again, only on the right side.  There was blood in my urine, my white blood cell count was elevated, and severe pain again.    An ultrasound found imflamation, thus my doctor determined I had an infection and was prescribed antibiotics.  However, I still have mild (throbbing/aching) flank pain on my right side.  My doctor suspects ovarian cysts, and I'm going for another ultrasound and x-ray.  Some history:  I've always had the problem of frequent urination (for about 30 years or so).  I have a hiatus hernia whereby I take Nexium for the heartburn and indigestion.  This past Christmas I went to emerg again for chest pain (eco cardiogram (sp?) was okay.  Deemed to be stress)  I'm wondering if my pregnancy has brought on this kidney problem (if it is a kidney problem).  I had to take a lot of fertility drugs, and I've always been concerned about the long term repercussions.

Sincerely, and thank you for any advice you can give me.
Liane Aubin

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

Kidney stones form when the components of urine are out of balance. When this happens, the urine contains more crystal-forming substances, such as calcium and uric acid. Kidney stones are also prone to develop in highly acidic or highly alkaline urine.  Sometimes, the underlying cause is an inherited metabolic disorder or kidney disease. Gout, inflammatory bowel disease and some medications promote specific types of kidney stones. It's common, however, for kidney stones to have no definite, single cause. The following can increase your risk of developing kidney stones: family history, lack of fluids, age and sex, diet, limited activity, obesity, high blood pressure, and changes in the digestive process. You can read more about this through this link: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/kidney-stones/DS00282/DSECTION=risk%2Dfactors

Take care and keep us posted.

[wanda2008]

Wow! I cannot believe it! I too started to get kidney stones 12 years ago when I was pregnant. I had the first one removed while pregnant and have had SEVERAL kidney stones since. I have gone in for surgery two times and they found nothing. I too have struggled with heartburn. I am at a loss now after just going into the hospital for 3 days with flank pain and infection. I really don't have any advice but feel your pain.

I am now concerned about long term effects of many kidney stones and have a restricted uriter. When ever I talk to my doctor I feel like I am making up the pain and concern. Anyone else have any advice?