Urinary stones, also known as kidney stones or renal calculi, can cause various symptoms. The specific symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the stone within the urinary system. Here are common symptoms associated with urinary stones:
Intense and sudden pain: Severe pain, often described as one of the most intense types of pain, can occur when a stone moves and blocks the flow of urine. The pain typically originates in the back or side below the ribs and may radiate to the lower abdomen or groin area. The pain may come in waves and vary in intensity.
Hematuria: Blood in the urine (hematuria) is a common symptom of urinary stones. The urine may appear pink, red, or brown due to the presence of blood. Hematuria may be intermittent and may not always be visible to the naked eye. Microscopic analysis of urine can detect the presence of blood cells.
Frequent urination: Urinary stones can irritate the lining of the urinary tract, leading to increased frequency of urination. You may feel the need to urinate more frequently than usual, even in small amounts.
Painful urination: Urinating with a urinary stone can be painful or cause a burning sensation. The pain is typically felt during or immediately after urination.
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine: Urine containing urinary stones may appear cloudy or have an unpleasant odor due to the presence of minerals and other substances.
Urgency to urinate: The sensation of a strong and urgent need to urinate can be experienced with urinary stones. However, the stone’s position and size may affect the ability to pass urine, resulting in incomplete emptying of the bladder.
Nausea and vomiting: In some cases, urinary stones can cause nausea and vomiting, especially if the pain is severe.
Fever and chills: If a urinary stone causes a blockage and leads to an infection, you may experience fever, chills, and general malaise. Infection-related symptoms may also include cloudy or foul-smelling urine and urinary urgency.
It’s important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. Some individuals may have small stones that pass through the urinary system without causing noticeable symptoms, while others may experience intense pain and require medical intervention. If you suspect you have a urinary stone or experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
