Kidney stones are solid masses or crystals that form within the kidneys. They occur when substances like minerals, acids, and salts become too concentrated in the urine and crystallize. While smaller stones may pass unnoticed, larger ones can become lodged in the urinary tract, causing significant discomfort and various other symptoms.
The Link to Nausea
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms for individuals with kidney stones, often triggered by the intense pain known as renal colic. This severe pain activates the nervous system, which can disrupt normal digestive processes.
A primary physiological mechanism behind this connection is the shared nerve supply between the urinary system and the gastrointestinal tract. When a kidney stone causes irritation or obstruction in the kidney or ureter, it can stimulate the vagus nerve. This nerve plays a crucial role in regulating involuntary bodily functions, including digestion, and its stimulation can lead to an upset stomach and activate the brain’s vomiting center. Another factor is that if a kidney stone blocks the flow of urine, it can cause pressure to build up and the kidney to swell, a condition known as hydronephrosis. This increased pressure and swelling can also contribute to feelings of nausea and vomiting.
Understanding Diarrhea’s Connection
Diarrhea is a less direct symptom of kidney stones compared to pain or nausea, arising from indirect mechanisms. The intense pain can induce a systemic stress response in the body, affecting the digestive system and potentially altering bowel function, leading to loose stools.
Additionally, severe pain from a kidney stone might irritate nearby nerves that also supply the intestines, causing disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract and contributing to changes in bowel habits. Diarrhea can also be a symptom if a kidney stone leads to a kidney infection due to a blocked ureter. Furthermore, certain pain medications prescribed for kidney stone pain can have gastrointestinal side effects, though constipation is a more commonly reported issue.
Recognizing Other Symptoms and Seeking Care
Beyond nausea and, less commonly, diarrhea, kidney stones present with several other characteristic symptoms. The primary symptom is severe, sharp pain, known as renal colic, typically felt in the back, side, or lower abdomen. This pain often radiates towards the groin and occurs in waves, intensifying as the body attempts to pass the stone.
Other common signs include blood in the urine, which may appear pink, red, or brown. Individuals might also experience a frequent or urgent need to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, or the inability to urinate. If an infection develops, symptoms can include fever, chills, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
It is important to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect kidney stones. Immediate care is recommended for intense pain that makes it impossible to find comfort, or if nausea and vomiting prevent keeping fluids down. A fever or chills accompanying the pain could indicate a serious infection. Additionally, if there is visible blood in the urine, or if you experience difficulty or a complete inability to urinate, professional medical evaluation is necessary. Only a healthcare provider can accurately diagnose kidney stones and determine the appropriate course of treatment.