Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Among these, calcium oxalate stones are the most common type. Early detection is crucial to prevent severe complications. Recognizing the kidney stone symptoms can help you seek timely medical attention and reduce the risk of kidney damage.
One of the most noticeable kidney stone symptoms is intense pain in your back, side, or lower abdomen. This pain, often called renal colic, can come in waves and may vary in intensity. It occurs as the stone moves through the urinary tract, causing spasms in the ureter. The pain may also radiate to your groin or lower abdomen, signaling a stone blockage.
Experiencing discomfort or a burning sensation while urinating is another common sign of kidney stones. As the calcium oxalate stones travel through the urinary tract, they can irritate the lining, making urination painful. This symptom may also be accompanied by frequent urges to urinate or difficulty passing urine.
Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is a frequent kidney stone symptom. Urine may appear pink, red, or brown, depending on the severity of the bleeding. This occurs when stones scratch the urinary tract lining as they move, causing minor bleeding. Even small amounts of blood should not be ignored, as they may indicate the presence of stones.
Kidney stones can trigger nausea and vomiting due to the intense pain and the effect on your digestive system. The close connection between the kidneys and the gastrointestinal tract can cause these symptoms when the body is under stress from the blockage. If accompanied by severe pain, nausea and vomiting are strong indicators of calcium oxalate stones.
Changes in your urine are important kidney stone symptoms to watch for. Cloudy or foul-smelling urine can indicate an infection alongside the stones. Additionally, reduced urine output may occur if the stone is blocking the flow of urine. Early recognition of these changes can prevent further complications and the need for invasive treatments.
Being aware of these kidney stone symptoms is essential for maintaining kidney health. Calcium oxalate stones are the most common, and early identification can save you from severe pain and complications. If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional promptly.
For more detailed information about the signs and symptoms of kidney stones, visit 5 Major Symptoms and Signs of Calcium Oxalate Stones.