Kidney stones are a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. They’re small hard “stones’ that are made up of crystallized minerals that form inside your kidneys. You may have had kidney stones for years and not know it, but when they begin to pass through your ureter, the tube that runs between the kidney and the bladder, they can be extremely painful.
Recognizing the symptoms of kidney stones is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment. It’s important to note that if you suspect you have kidney stones, you should consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Read below for 7 early signs that you may have a kidney stone. If you suspect you have kidney stones, contact your doctor right away to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
WHAT DOES A KIDNEY STONE FEEL LIKE? Seven EARLY SIGNS TO WATCH
1. Severe and Intense Flank or Abdominal Pain:
One of the hallmark symptoms of kidney stones is severe and intense pain. The pain is typically experienced in the back, just below the ribs, known as the flank area, or in the lower abdomen. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), kidney stone pain is often described as one of the most excruciating types of pain. The sensation is sharp, stabbing, or cramping, and it can come in waves. The pain may intensify during urination or sudden movements [1].
It’s important to note that while this extreme pain is often present, it doesn’t always have to be. The pain is typically on one side – right or left, and it may come and go as the stone moves along the funnel between the kidney and the bladder. You may experience intense pain for a time, then no pain at all for a while until the stone starts to pass again.
The size of your kidney stone has an impact on the pain it is likely to cause as well. As would be expected, you’ll have a harder time passing larger stones, which are more likely to block the urinary tract. Those will typically be more painful than smaller stones that can easily pass through.
2.Hematuria (Blood in your urine):
Another common symptom of kidney stones is the presence of blood in the urine, known as hematuria. When kidney stones cause bleeding within the urinary tract, the urine may appear pink, red, or brownish in color. It’s important to note that hematuria caused by kidney stones is usually painless. However, some individuals may experience a sense of urgency or frequency in urination, even without pain. If you notice blood in your urine, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly [2], as this could be a sign of a number of other serious problems.
3.Urinary Changes and Discomfort:
Kidney stones can lead to various changes in urinary patterns and discomfort as they move through the urinary tract. Increased frequency of urination, urgency, difficulty in urinating, or a slower-than-normal flow when you urinate are common symptoms. The urge to urinate more frequently and the need to rush to the bathroom can be disruptive and frustrating. Some individuals may also experience pain or a burning sensation during urination due to the irritation caused by the stone. If you notice significant changes in your urinary habits or experience discomfort, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation [3].
4.Nausea and Vomiting:
Nausea and vomiting can be associated with kidney stones. The severe pain caused by the stones can trigger the feeling that you’re sick to your stomach. Additionally, if a stone causes a blockage in the urinary system, it can lead to nausea and vomiting. It’s important to note that while vomiting may provide temporary relief from pain, it does not resolve the underlying issue. If you experience persistent nausea and vomiting along with other symptoms, see your doctor right away [4].
5. Fever and Chills:
In some cases, kidney stones may cause you to feel an array of symptoms that just make you feel off. These symptoms can include fever, chills, sweating, and a general sense of unease. The presence of fever and chills may indicate the presence of an infection, which requires immediate medical attention. Fatigue and weakness can also be experienced as a result of kidney stones. If you have kidney stones and notice these additional symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice promptly [5].
6.Cloudy or Smelly Urine
If your pee has a funky, ammonia-type smell it could be a sign of a kidney stone. The crystallized minerals that make up a kidney stone can also cause your urine to appear cloudy. Cloudy urine could result from a number of other conditions, such as sexually transmitted infections or urinary tract infections, or even dehydration, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about it if it’s something you’re noticing.
7. A Burning Sensation When You Pee
While often associated with urinary tract infections, kidney stones can also be responsible for that painful, burning sensation when you empty your bladder, especially as the stone gets closer to the spot between your ureter and bladder. (Learn how to tell the difference between a kidney stone and a UTI here.)
WHEN TO SEEK HELP
Recognizing the symptoms of kidney stones is essential for early detection and proper management. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. By seeking timely medical attention, you can alleviate the pain and prevent potential complications associated with kidney stones.
References:
- https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/kidney-stones-adults
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-stones/symptoms-causes/syc-20355755
- https://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/kidney-stones
- https://www.auanet.org/education/urologic-disease-symptoms/kidney-stones
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/kidney-stones-a-to-z
