Don’t Ignore These 5 Common Kidney Stone Symptoms
Kidney stones are crystalline mineral deposits that form in the kidney or urinary tract. They can cause excruciating pain, discomfort, and even lead to more severe health problems such as kidney damage if left untreated. In this article, we’ll highlight the most common kidney stone symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore.
1. Intense Pain
One of the most typical symptoms of kidney stones is intense pain. The pain may start in your back, flank (side), or lower abdomen and can become unbearable over time. The pain may also fluctuate in intensity and may feel like sharp stabbing or dull ache. If you experience intense pain, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Changes in Urination
If you notice any changes in your urine patterns, it could be a sign of kidney stones. For instance, you may experience trouble urinating, or there may be a change in the color or smell of urine. Kidney stones can also cause blood or pus to appear in the urine.
3. Nausea and Vomiting
Kidney stone symptoms don’t just stop at urinary problems, as they can cause gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms as well. Nausea and vomiting are common GI symptoms that can occur with kidney stone attacks.
4. Fever and Chills
Sometimes, kidney stone symptoms can mimic a urinary tract infection (UTI) or cause an actual UTI. If this happens, you may experience fever and chills, indicating that your body is fighting an infection.
5. Persistent Aching
If you notice persistent aching or discomfort in your lower abdomen, it could be another sign of kidney stones. This pain may linger even after the acute pain subsides, and you may feel it while you urinate or move around.
Conclusion
Kidney stone symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. If you experience any of the above symptoms or suspect you may have a kidney stone, see a doctor immediately. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe health problems in the long-term. Remember to stay hydrated, eat a healthy diet, and maintain a healthy weight to help prevent kidney stones from forming.
