Kidney stones are small, hard deposits of minerals and salts that are formed inside one’s kidneys. From there, they may move down the urinary tract causing severe pain and discomfort. They are formed when certain minerals accumulate in the kidney, usually in the absence of proper hydration. Their size and composition vary from person to person and smaller stones may even pass unnoticed with the urine. 

Kidney stones are one of the most common health concerns and may affect people of all ages. It may lead to some common signs and symptoms that one should look out for to get treated at earlier stages. Find these signs and symptoms below. 

• Severe, intense pain in the abdomen, back or sides 

Also known as renal colic, kidney stone pain is one of the most critical types of physical pain. The intensity can be compared to that which occurs during childbirth. This is why kidney stones are one of the prominent reasons for emergency visits to hospitals around the globe. Such pain usually occurs when the stone increases in size or passes down the urinary tract without breaking down in smaller parts. This leads to blockage in the ureter and pressure build up in the kidney which further activates the pain receptors. Also, note that the kidney stone pain may come and go in waves on its own without the administration of any pain reliever. 

• Burning sensation or pain during urination 

Sharp pain, discomfort or a burning sensation during urination is a common sign of kidney stone. It usually occurs when the stone reaches the junction between the bladder and the ureter. 

This may also be a sign of a urinary tract infection. Thus, do not administer any medication without consulting with your doctor and discuss all the other signs you are observing with them. 

• Frequent urge to urinate 

When the stone moves to the lower part of the urinary tract, it may lead to a frequent urge to urinate. Therefore, if you are experiencing such urgency without making any change in your dietary habits, consult a doctor at the earliest. It may also be a sign of other conditions related to urinary health. 

• Cloudy urine or smell in urine 

Upon proper hydration, healthy urine does not have a strong odor or cloudiness. These are a sign of an underlying condition such as kidney infections, urinary tract infections and kidney stones. 

• Hematuria or blood in the urine 

Stones that move to the urinary tract can lead to the condition of blood in the urine, also known as hematuria. The blood may appear to be red, brown or pink, however, it may also be invisible to naked eyes. The latter case is identified when the doctor recommends a diagnostic test to check the urine microscopically for the presence of blood cells. 

The Bottom Line 

The above-mentioned signs and symptoms only indicate the possibility of having kidney stones. However, they may appear due to other health concerns as well. Therefore, always see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and do not consume any medicine or drug without consulting a certified health practitioner. If you are experiencing any of these signs, schedule an appointment today with the best urologists and nephrologists at HJ Hospitals and receive the right treatment plan to prevent further complications.