10 Kidney Stones Symptoms

By Andrea Miller Published on Feb 6, 2025.

Introduction

Kidney stones can be extremely painful yet are a common condition that affects millions worldwide. They form when minerals and salts bond inside your kidneys. Recognizing the symptoms early can help manage pain and seek appropriate medical intervention.

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Severe Pain

One of the most common symptoms is experiencing intense pain, often described as sharp cramping. This pain usually starts in the back or side under the ribs and may radiate to the lower abdomen and groin. The pain can vary in intensity and may shift location as the stone moves through the urinary tract.

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Pain Moving from Back to Groin

Pain caused by kidney stones may start at the back or side and move to the abdomen or groin. This is often different from pain caused by urinary tract infections. Cramping pains in the abdomen aren’t exclusive to kidney stones. It’s important to seek medical advice if the pain is severe or lasts a long time without subsiding. Medical advice should also be sought if the pain is accompanied by an elevated temperature or other potential kidney stone symptoms, such as nausea or dark-colored urine.
 

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Frequent Urination

A noticeable increase in the urgency or frequency of urination can be a warning sign of kidney stones. You may feel the persistent need to urinate more often than usual. Although you rush to the restroom, you might produce only small amounts of urine each time.

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Blood in Urine

Also known as hematuria, blood in your urine is often a crucial indicator of kidney stones. As the stone moves, it can irritate the urinary tract, leading to visible or microscopic bleeding. This symptom can make your urine appear pink, red, or brown.

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Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine

An often overlooked symptom is the presence of cloudy or unusually odorous urine. This can occur due to infection accompanying a kidney stone. The cloudy appearance is typically due to pus or other materials in the urine.

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Nausea and Vomiting

Experiencing nausea or vomiting often accompanies the painful symptoms of kidney stones. These symptoms occur because of a shared nerve pathway between your kidneys and the stomach, causing your digestive system to react. Persistent nausea can also result from discomfort and stress.

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Fever and Chills

A more severe symptom, fever, and chills may occur if a kidney stone causes a urinary tract infection (UTI). These signs indicate that the infection could have spread to the bloodstream, a potentially serious situation requiring medical attention. Monitoring your temperature and symptoms is crucial.

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Difficulty Passing Urine

Sometimes, you may feel a blockage when trying to urinate because of kidney stones. This feeling of obstruction can cause significant discomfort and stress. The inability to urinate freely is a sign you should seek advice from a healthcare professional.

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Persistent Urge to Urinate

The constant need to urinate, even when you've just emptied your bladder, can signal the presence of stones. This symptom is akin to a UTI and warrants immediate medical consultation to discern the cause. Leaving such symptoms unaddressed can lead to complications.

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Discomfort Sitting or Standing Still

Mild to severe discomfort when attempting to remain in one place can be a symptom of stone movement. Stones traveling through your system may constantly shift position, causing relentless pain. It's important to note that motion can sometimes increase discomfort and necessitates professional evaluation.

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Conclusion

Recognizing the diverse symptoms of kidney stones is vital for early identification and treatment. From pain and visible symptoms like blood in urine to systemic signs like fever, awareness can lead to timely medical intervention. If you suspect any of these symptoms, consulting your healthcare provider is critical for effective management.

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The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any program. Reliance on any information is solely at your own risk. In case of a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

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