Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys when certain substances in the urine become highly concentrated. They can vary in size and can cause immense pain when they block the flow of urine.

While kidney stones can be asymptomatic and pass unnoticed, they often present with specific signs and symptoms. Understanding these signs can help you identify if you have kidney stones and seek appropriate medical attention.

1. Severe Pain in the Back or Side

One of the most common and recognizable symptoms of kidney stones is intense pain in the back or side. This pain is often described as sharp, stabbing, or cramping and may come in waves.

The pain typically originates below the ribs and may travel down towards the lower abdomen and groin. It can be excruciating and debilitating, causing a great deal of distress for those who experience it.

2. Blood in the Urine

Another sign of kidney stones is the presence of blood in the urine, also known as hematuria. This can give the urine a pink, red, or brown color.

The amount of blood can vary, ranging from microscopic traces that can only be detected through laboratory testing to visible blood that is easily noticeable. It is important to note that blood in the urine can also be a sign of other medical conditions, so it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis.

3. Frequent Urination

Patients with kidney stones often experience an increased frequency of urination. They may feel the need to urinate more frequently than usual or have sudden urges to urinate.

However, the amount of urine passed during each episode may be significantly reduced. This symptom occurs due to the obstruction caused by the kidney stones, which disrupts the normal urinary flow and can lead to urinary tract infections and other complications.

4. Difficulty and Painful Urination

Kidney stones can cause urinary difficulties and pain during urination. Patients may experience a burning sensation or discomfort while passing urine.

This can be associated with inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract due to the presence of the stones. Additionally, the stones themselves can cause obstruction within the urinary tract, leading to a blockage and resulting in pain and difficulty in passing urine.

5. Foul-Smelling Urine

In some cases, kidney stones can give urine a foul odor. This can occur due to the presence of bacteria or an infection in the urinary tract, which may have resulted from prolonged obstruction caused by the stones.

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If the urine has a strong and unpleasant smell that persists over time, it is advisable to seek medical attention for further evaluation.

6. Nausea and Vomiting

Kidney stones can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. The pain associated with kidney stones can be severe enough to trigger these symptoms, which can then lead to a loss of appetite and dehydration.

If you experience persistent nausea and vomiting along with other symptoms mentioned here, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

7. Fever and Chills

In some cases, kidney stones can lead to an infection, known as pyelonephritis. This can cause fever, chills, and other flu-like symptoms.

If you have kidney stones along with these systemic symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention, as an infection can be a serious complication that requires prompt treatment with antibiotics.

8. Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine

In addition to foul-smelling urine, kidney stones can cause the urine to appear cloudy or murky. This can be due to the presence of an infection or other substances in the urine.

If your urine consistently appears cloudy or has a strong odor, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

9. Abdominal Discomfort

Some patients with kidney stones may experience discomfort or pain in the abdomen. This can manifest as a general discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the abdominal region.

It is important not to ignore this symptom, especially if it is accompanied by other signs mentioned here, as it may indicate an underlying kidney stone issue that requires medical intervention.

10. Urinary Tract Infections

Kidney stones can increase the risk of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the blockage and obstruction they cause.

Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include a frequent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, cloudy urine, and lower abdominal pain. If you have a history of kidney stones and experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection, it is crucial to seek medical attention for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.