Men's Kidney Stone Symptoms and What You Need to Know

Kidney stones can develop in various organs of the body, and the symptoms are largely similar between men and women. Urolithiasis, or urinary tract stones, is one of the most common surgical conditions, with a significantly higher prevalence in men than in women, at a ratio of about 4-5:1. This includes stones in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The two primary symptoms associated with kidney stones are pain and hematuria (blood in the urine).

Severe Pain Could Signal a Kidney Stone
When a stone is large and remains relatively stationary within the renal pelvis, the pain is often described as a dull ache or intermittent discomfort. However, smaller stones that move freely within the kidney can cause blockages at the junction of the renal pelvis and ureter, leading to a condition known as renal colic. This type of pain is sudden, intense, and typically starts in the flank area before radiating downward to the lower abdomen and groin. It is often episodic, lasting from several minutes to hours, and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, pale skin, and profuse sweating, sometimes leading to a feeling of near-fainting or exhaustion.

Hematuria Is a Common Indicator
Blood in the urine is the second most common symptom of kidney and ureteral stones. The combination of pain followed by visible blood in the urine is a classic sign of urinary stone disease. Physical activity such as strenuous work, horseback riding, or long-distance travel can trigger these symptoms. In some cases, the blood may not be visible to the naked eye, but in others, it can be clearly seen.

Bladder and Urethral Stones Present Unique Symptoms
Bladder stones may lead to additional urinary symptoms, including frequent urination, urgency, painful urination, and visible blood in the urine. If a stone blocks the urethra, it can cause difficulty urinating, straining during urination, or even sudden interruptions in the urine stream.

Understanding these symptoms and seeking timely medical attention is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. If you experience sudden, severe flank pain or notice blood in your urine, consult a healthcare professional to rule out or address potential kidney stones.