A 40-year-old male presents with severe, colicky pain in his lower abdomen and back. He also mentions seeing blood in his urine. What are the potential causes, and what are the next steps?
This patient's symptoms of severe, colicky pain and hematuria are suggestive of a kidney stone. Other potential causes could include urinary tract infection, bladder or kidney injury, or bladder cancer. The next steps would involve a thorough evaluation, including urinalysis, blood tests, and imaging studies like a renal ultrasound or CT scan. Depending on the size and location of the stone, treatment options may include pain management and fluid intake, medical expulsive therapy, or surgical intervention.