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Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can cause a lot of physical distress. The sharp, stabbing pains in the back are excruciating and drive many who feel this to seek immediate medical attention. While this is the most obvious symptom of a kidney stone attack, there are a few other symptoms that, if felt, should be treated immediately.

  1. Who Is Affected?

    • Find out if you are predisposed to kidney problems based on family medical history. If kidney stone attacks are a common occurence among close family members, this will allow you to be forewarned should any symptoms arise.

      Those who live sedentary lifestyles and eat a diet that is high in sodium and protein but low in calcium are prone to kidney stones. Obesity and high blood pressure are also risk factors.

      The most important factor of all is not drinking enough water. If you are not well hydrated, urine has a better chance of forming stones. If you live in a hot climate or exercise vigorously, always drink plenty of water throughout the day.

    Dull Back Pain

    • Incessant lower back pain may begin as dull and throbbing. It may be relentless or it may come and go, but this may be your first signal that you have kidney stones. Take an analgesic and determine the level of pain afterward. If it goes away and does not return, you are likely OK. However, if the pain comes back, becomes more intense and fixated in one location, seek help immediately. Go see a doctor and let her run some tests before a full-blown attack occurs.

    Fatigue

    • Fever, lethargy and exhaustion are symptoms of kidney stones. Your energy level may decrease, concentration may become clouded, and nausea may occur. These are symptoms of a cold or fever so it is important to rule that out before assuming you have kidney stones.

    Bloody Urine

    • If you feel any distress that you may suspect are kidney stones, observe your urine. There may be traces of blood or it may appear to be orange. If the latter is the case, most likely you are dehydrated. However, if there is blood in the urine accompanied with kidney pains, seek immediate treatment.

    Sharp Pains

    • Sharp pains on one side of the lower back is alarming. The feeling that your abdomen is being cut open from the inside is a red flag that you are suffering a kidney stone attack. The pain radiating from the back to the abdomen will be constant and intolerable. Go see your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.

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