Blog

If you feel a sudden, sharp pain in your back or side, it could be a kidney stone. A kidney stone is a small rock-like deposit that forms in your kidneys and can cause problems if not treated early.

But how do you know if you have a kidney stone? In this blog, Dr. Saurabh Chipde, who provides advanced urological care in Indore, will explain the signs and symptoms of kidney stones in a way that’s easy to understand.

Before starting with signs and symptoms, first, let's start with knowing what a kidney stone exactly is.

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, or urolithiasis, are solid deposits of minerals and salts that develop within the kidneys.

Various factors, such as diet, excess body weight, certain medical conditions, and specific supplements and medications, can lead to the formation of kidney stones. These stones have the potential to affect any part of the urinary tract, from the kidneys to the bladder. Frequently, stones form due to the concentration of urine, which allows minerals to crystallize and adhere together.

Symptoms and Signs of Kidney Stones

The Sneaky Back Pain
Kidney stones often start with pain in your lower back, just below your ribs. This pain can come and go, and it might even spread to your lower abdomen. The pain is usually intense and doesn’t get better no matter what you do. It’s not the kind of pain you can ignore—it demands attention.

The Urge to Run to the Bathroom
Have you ever had that feeling where you urgently need to pee? Kidney stones can make you feel that way a lot. You might find yourself rushing to the bathroom more often than usual. Sometimes, when you go, you might only manage to squeeze out a little bit of urine, which can be painful. You might experience the need to go to the bathroom frequently, both during the day and at night. Urinary urgency may imitate a symptom of a UTI as well.

Blood in Your Urine
One of the more alarming signs of kidney stones is seeing blood in your urine. The urine might look pink, red, or brown, which is abnormal. This happens because the stone irritates the lining of your urinary tract as it moves through your body.

The Nausea and Vomiting Roller Coaster
Kidney stones can also make you feel uneasy. Nausea and vomiting often come along with the pain, making you feel even worse. This is because your body reacts to the intense pain and tries to get rid of the stone.

Cloudy or Smelly Urine
If your urine starts to look cloudy or smells bad, it could be a sign that a kidney stone is hanging out in your body. This can also be a sign of an infection, which sometimes happens when you have a stone.

The Persistent Pain That Won’t Quit
Kidney stone pain doesn’t play by the rules. It can last for a short time or drag on for hours or even days. The pain can be dull or sharp, and it often comes in waves, making it hard to get comfortable or find relief.

Fever and Chills
If you get a fever or chills along with the other symptoms, you might have an infection because of the kidney stone. This is serious and means you need to see a doctor right away.

When to See a Doctor

Kidney stones are no joke. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. They can run tests, like an ultrasound or a CT scan, to see what’s happening inside your body.

Listen to Your Body

Your body has ways of telling you when something’s not right. If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, don’t ignore them. Kidney stones might be small, but they can cause big problems. You can avoid much pain and discomfort by paying attention to these symptoms and seeking help early.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and looking for the best urologist in Indore, look no further than Dr. Saurabh Chipde. He provides advanced urological care in Indore.