Nephrologist (Kidney Specialist) Questions Kidney Infections

Is kidney pain after COVID normal?

I recovered from a COVID infection last week. Since then I have kidney pain. Is it normal? Should I see a doctor?

5 Answers

You should see your primary care and make sure a urinalysis is done
Yes better to see a doctor. The pain could be musculoskeletal, but better to check with PCP to rule out kidney injury or urinary infection.
Back pain can be confused with kidney pain, more commonly patients recovered from Covid have lingering Musculoskeletal issues, there may be several reasons, but weakness, lethargy, and lack of movement may cause the muscle to become more flaccid. True kidney pain may occasionally occur, it is likely associated with kidney stone disease. Please do have an evaluation with with your doctor.
Kidneys can be affected only in patients with severe Covid infection requiring hospitalization.

Reeta Kaul Thukral, M.D., FACP, FASN
You should not get kidney pain, it could be muscular pain. Do see your local doctor.