Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones, a common condition in clinical practice, can cause a variety of symptoms depending on their location within the urinary tract. When stones are present in the kidneys, individuals may experience mild to severe back pain, typically on one side of the body.

One of the most characteristic symptoms of kidney stones is renal colic, a sudden and intense pain caused by stones blocking the ureter. This pain often starts in the flank area and can radiate toward the lower abdomen and groin. It may come in waves and vary in intensity, often becoming so severe that it prompts immediate medical attention.

In cases where stones are located in the bladder or urethra, difficulty urinating or interrupted urine flow may occur. Patients might feel a burning sensation during urination or be unable to fully empty the bladder.

In addition to pain, blood in the urine is another common sign of urinary stones. This can manifest as visible blood in the urine (gross hematuria) or only be detectable under a microscope (microscopic hematuria).

Moreover, kidney stones can also lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs), causing symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, painful urination, and even fever. These signs should not be ignored, as untreated infections can lead to more serious complications.

If you suspect you may have kidney stones, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.