Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in your kidneys. They can cause severe pain and other uncomfortable symptoms when they pass through your urinary tract.
While some stones are small enough to pass unnoticed, others can cause significant pain and require medical attention. Here’s a breakdown of the common symptoms of kidney stones:
The Hallmark Symptom: Pain
- Location: The most common symptom of kidney stones is pain in your lower back, abdomen, or side (flank pain). This pain can radiate towards your groin.
- Intensity: The pain can vary from dull and achy to sharp and severe. It’s often described as a “colicky” pain because it comes in waves and intensifies for a while before subsiding somewhat.
Other Urinary Symptoms
- Painful urination: You may experience a burning sensation or pain while urinating.
- Frequent urination: You might feel the urge to urinate often, even if you don’t pass much urine.
- Difficulty urinating: In some cases, a kidney stone might block the flow of urine, making it difficult or impossible to urinate.
Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)
The presence of blood in your urine, either bright red or pink, can be a sign of a kidney stone.
Nausea and Vomiting
Kidney stones can sometimes trigger nausea and vomiting due to the intense pain.
Fever and Chills
A fever and chills may accompany a kidney stone if it blocks the flow of urine and leads to an infection.
Changes in Urine Appearance
- Cloudiness: Your urine might appear cloudy due to the presence of blood or pus cells.
- Foul odor: The urine may develop a strong or foul odor.
It’s important to note that not everyone experiences all these symptoms, and the severity can vary depending on the size and location of the stone.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, especially severe pain, blood in your urine, or fever, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications like infection and kidney damage.
