Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidneys when high levels of certain minerals are present in the urine. They vary in size, from a grain of sand to a pea. While small stones may pass unnoticed, larger ones can cause discomfort as they travel through the urinary tract. This process is often painful, though many small stones pass without medical intervention.
Recognizing the Signs of a Passing Kidney Stone
The most common symptom of a passing kidney stone is pain, known as renal colic. This pain starts suddenly, is sharp, severe, and cramping, and often fluctuates in intensity. It is felt in the side and back, below the ribs, and can spread to the lower abdomen and groin as the stone moves. The pain may come in waves, lasting between 20 to 60 minutes, as the ureter contracts to push the stone forward.
Changes in urination also accompany a passing kidney stone. Individuals may experience an increased urgency and frequency to urinate, along with pain or a burning sensation during urination, known as dysuria. Blood in the urine (hematuria) is common, making urine appear pink, red, or brown. This occurs as the stone irritates the urinary tract.
Nausea and vomiting are common during kidney stone passage, often accompanying severe pain. These symptoms occur due to shared nerve connections between the kidneys and the gastrointestinal tract. Other signs include restlessness or an inability to find a comfortable position due to shifting pain.
Managing the Passage Process
Staying hydrated is important when a kidney stone is passing, as drinking water can help flush the stone through the urinary system. Experts recommend consuming enough fluids to produce at least 2.5 liters of urine daily, aiming for pale, clear urine. While increased hydration is beneficial for prevention and general flow, aggressive fluid intake during an acute stone episode may not significantly speed up passage or reduce pain.
Pain management is a concern during stone passage. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce discomfort. For more severe pain, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain medication. Applying a heating pad or taking a warm bath can also help alleviate pain by relaxing muscles and increasing blood flow to the affected area.
Collecting the passed stone for analysis provides valuable information for future prevention. Using a urine strainer allows for the collection of the stone or fragments. This collected stone should be saved and brought to a healthcare provider for analysis, which helps determine its composition and guides preventative strategies. Engaging in light activity, such as walking, can help encourage the stone to move.
Knowing When the Stone Has Passed
The most definitive indication that a kidney stone has passed is sudden relief from severe, colicky pain. This abrupt cessation of intense discomfort suggests the stone is no longer obstructing the urinary tract. While the pain may lessen as the stone enters the bladder, true relief often comes when it exits the body.
Observing the stone itself confirms its passage. If a urine strainer was used, the presence of a small object in the strainer means the stone has passed. Passed kidney stones appear small, gritty, and can be yellow, brown, or darker colors depending on their composition. Even tiny fragments are important to collect for potential analysis.
A reduction in other associated symptoms indicates successful passage. Nausea, vomiting, and urinary urgency often subside once the stone is no longer causing irritation or obstruction. Following passage, it is beneficial to follow up with a healthcare provider. This consultation can confirm complete passage, address any remaining concerns, and develop a plan to prevent future stone formation based on the stone’s analysis.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Care
Certain symptoms during kidney stone passage warrant medical attention. Unbearable pain that cannot be managed with medication indicates a need for urgent care. This level of pain can signify a more complicated issue or a stone that is unlikely to pass on its own.
Fever and chills, especially with pain, are serious signs. These symptoms can indicate a urinary tract infection or a kidney infection, which can become severe if not treated promptly. An infection in the urinary system combined with a stone can lead to complications such as urosepsis.
An inability to urinate is a critical symptom requiring medical evaluation. This could mean the stone is completely blocking the flow of urine, which can cause urine to back up into the kidney and potentially lead to kidney damage.
Persistent nausea and vomiting leading to dehydration necessitates urgent care. While some blood in the urine is common, if it is excessive or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seeking medical help is advised.