Kidney Stone Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form inside the kidneys. They are made from minerals and salts present in urine. In the early stage, kidney stones may not cause any symptoms. But when a stone starts moving or blocks the flow of urine, it can cause severe pain and other serious problems. Knowing the symptoms early can help you get timely treatment and protect your kidneys.

Below are the most important kidney stone symptoms that you should never ignore.

1. Severe Pain in Back, Side, or Lower Abdomen

The most common symptom of kidney stones is strong pain, also called renal colic. The pain usually starts in the back or side, below the ribs. It may later move to the lower abdomen or groin area. The pain can come in waves and may change its position as the stone moves. This pain is often very intense and does not get better with rest.

2. Pain or Burning While Urinating

When the stone reaches the urinary tube, it can cause burning or pain during urination. Many people think it is just a urine infection, but kidney stones can also cause this symptom. If the pain continues, it is important to consult a doctor.

3. Blood in Urine

Kidney stones can injure the inner lining of the urinary tract, which may cause blood in urine. Urine may look pink, red, or brown. Sometimes, blood is not visible but can be found during urine tests. Blood in urine should always be taken seriously.

4. Frequent Urination

You may feel the urge to urinate again and again, especially when the stone is near the bladder. Some people also pass very little urine each time or feel that the bladder is not completely empty.

5. Nausea and Vomiting

Kidney stone pain can affect the stomach and cause nausea or vomiting. This happens because the kidneys and digestive system share nerve connections. Severe pain can easily upset the stomach.

6. Cloudy or Bad-Smelling Urine

If urine looks cloudy or smells bad, it may be a sign of infection caused by kidney stones. Blocked urine flow increases the risk of urinary tract infection, which needs proper medical care.

7. Fever and Chills

If kidney stones lead to infection, you may develop fever, chills, or shivering. This is a serious condition and should be treated immediately, as infection along with blockage can damage the kidneys.

When Should You See a Doctor Immediately?

You should seek medical help if you experience:

• Severe or unbearable pain
• Fever with chills
• Blood in urine
• Continuous vomiting
• Difficulty passing urine

Early diagnosis using ultrasound, X-ray, or CT scan helps in deciding the right treatment.

Conclusion

Kidney stones should never be ignored. What may start as mild discomfort can quickly turn into severe pain or infection. Paying attention to early symptoms can help prevent complications and kidney damage. If you notice any of these signs, consult an experienced urologist like Dr. Kumar Saurav in North Delhi Uro & Gynae Clinic for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.