Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Stones You Must Never Ignore
Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology | March 24, 2025
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Shooting pain in your pelvis? Your back is hurting like there is no tomorrow. It is possible that you are going to get your period or that you feel tired in general. Maybe you had a tough workout session, but the shooting pain all over the body, especially in the regions we mentioned, could be a lot more than just your menstrual cycle. How does a man make sense of it considering they don't go through it?
This is one of the symptoms of kidney stones, and you should not take it lightly. We are here to share some of the signs and symptoms you should not ignore. If you are experiencing any or more of them, please see a specialist immediately.
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones are nothing but hard deposits made of salts and minerals. They form inside the kidney.
What causes kidney stones? You might be curious to know. These stones get formed when the urine has more crystal-forming substances such as oxalate, calcium, and uric acid. It is not a pleasant health condition. Knowing the early signs of kidney stones can be very helpful.
How big can a kidney stone be?
While we don't want to scare you, a kidney stone can be as big as a golf ball. But, yes, it may be as small as a grain of sand too. Sometimes you get tiny ones in clusters.
The size may vary. And passing them could be as simple as urinating or going for a surgical procedure. Now, let's share the signs of kidney stones, since we are here to discuss them.
Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Stones You Should Be Aware Of
Extreme Pain
The most common and terrible sign is the pain you feel. What do kidney stones feel like? It makes you want to purge. The pain will start from the back or your side, and it may go to your ribs too. It's like a painful wave that peaks and falls as it pleases. The location of the kidney stone pain could vary. You will feel it in the abdomen, the back, and various sides of the body.
You are heading to the bathroom again and again!
Your bathroom has become your new best friend. But this isn't a joke. The relentless urge to go to the bathroom is real when you have kidney stones. The volume may not be much, but you feel the urge time and again.
Urinating feels like a tough task
The urinating experience feels painful. Or worse, it might even burn. You might see blood in the urine, which is a sign you should see the doctor immediately. Seeing blood in the urine means your kidney stones are moving.
You may have a question: How do you know if you have kidney stones? Well, if you are seeing blood, it is a strong sign.
Splashes of different colors
When you have kidney stones, you see a range of colors in your urine. Your urine may be yellow, orange, or bloody red. It's an alarming sign that you need to get an X-ray. If the stones are too big, they have to be removed through a surgical procedure.
Smelly and cloudy urine
Your urine has started smelling uncanny. It was never like this before, but now you have started smelling something odd. This needs to be checked.
In this case, people often ask, Do kidney stones cause urinary tract infections? Sure, they can. The kidney stone travels through the UT, and it may cause blockages. This will slow down the flow of urine. The uncanny or sluggish urine flow will create a perfect environment for the bacteria to thrive. This is how you get a UTI. And, well, this could be the reason your urine is smelly and cloudy.
Nausea
You are feeling nausea again and again. Blame it on the kidney stones. You feel like throwing up at the sight of food, or even if you are just experiencing the pain. The reaction to pain could be tears or nausea. If you are feeling this, do not ignore the signs. You have to visit the doctor immediately.
Getting fevers and chills
Now the next thing you know is that you have a fever. This is another symptom of kidney stones. The kidney stone has brought along a nasty infection too. In this case, you should look for other signs that could indicate that you may have kidney stones.
Be watchful if there are other signs, like pain or frequent urination. Check with your doctor to see if this is normal. They would suggest an X-ray to find out if you have kidney stones.
Concluding Thoughts
Do not worry if you have kidney stones. Many people get it. It is important for you to stay hydrated and follow what the doctor says. Even if it is a surgical procedure, you should go ahead and get it done to lead a smooth and pain-free life. Kidney stones can be removed, or they may pass through by drinking plenty of water. Meet a doctor as soon as you experience any alarming signs.
FAQs
What should I ignore about kidney stones?
You should be watchful of the diet you are taking. This will help prevent new stone formation. You don't want to worsen your current condition. Ignore foods with high oxalates.
What dissolves kidney stones fast?
Drinking lots of water can help dissolve kidney stones.
What fruit is good for kidney stones?
Citrus fruits are excellent for kidney stones. Consider adding oranges to your diet. This might help you bid adieu to kidney stones.
What vegetables should you avoid with kidney stones?
Kidney stones that form calcium oxalate require extra attention. You should avoid spinach, beetroot, Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, okra, and leeks. Spinach and all the other vegetables contain high levels of oxalates.
