I am 26 years old. When I was about 18, I had severe pain in my left back. My sister took me to the ER where they told me then, and told me up until 2004 that it was just an ulcer, contstapation, etc. In 2004, the pain was so bad I switched Dr.'s and my new Dr. referred me to a urologist. He finally determined that I was born with horseshoe kidneys and that my left kidney was more or less dying. He considered putting a stent in but decided it would not do any good, the kidney was already too far gone. He told me the pain was hydrophenosis and my kidney would probably be tender at certain points in the future until it fully stopped functioning. The Dr. did not say anything about removing the kidney. I am in pain now, it is very tender. I am just scared and in pain and would appreciate anyone's thoughts or advice. Thanks.

Wally, you need to call your Dr back and tell him what you are experiencing. If he doesn't help you maybe you should look for a different Dr's opinion again. You must keep the Dr informed on all of your symptoms. I know it is very scary as I have kidney problems also. By working closely with the Dr, some of the fear does go away. Good Luck. Amy