Kidney stones build up silently without causing any symptoms in the initial stages. According to Dr Avinash Ignatius, senior consultant nephrologist at DaVita Nephrology, Pune people who have smaller kidney stones may not even realise it because the stones readily make their way through the ureter without causing any symptoms. He discusses the following symptoms of kidney stones that may begin to appear as they increase in size.
Back and groin pain: Kidney stones are generally associated with severe pain on the sides and at the back, precisely below the ribs. The pain may be felt in the belly area initially and as the stones move down the ureter, pain may be felt in the lower abdomen and groin area. Men may feel pain in the testicles as well. Women may feel increased pain at the time of menstruation. The pain usually occurs with fluctuating intensity and may last upto 5-15 minutes.
Pain while urinating: With larger stones, passage of urine may get partially blocked as they pass through the ureter. This causes pain in the pelvic region and near the urinal opening.
Abnormal urine colour: The stone may damage the ureter lining and tissues, causing bleeding. Depending on the intensity of bleeding, the urine may appear cloudy, pink, red or dark brown in colour.
Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms if followed by acute pain in the lower abdomen and back, chills and fever should be immediately addressed. It could help in the early diagnosis of kidney stones.
Persistent urge to urinate: When the stones begin to increase in size, they interfere with normal urine flow due to obstruction. Without complete expulsion of urine, a constant urge to urinate may be felt. This also causes frequent urination as the bladder does not get completely evacuated.
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References:
A.D.A.M. medical encyclopedia [Internet] Kidney Stones. Atlanta (GA): A.D.A.M. Inc.; Oct 2, 2011. [cited 2014 Aug 13]. c1997-2014.
