Kidney stones are hard deposits that form within the kidneys from minerals and salts in the urine. These formations can cause considerable discomfort as they journey through the urinary system. Recognizing the signs of a kidney stone in motion helps individuals understand when to seek medical attention and manage their symptoms effectively.
The Path of a Kidney Stone
Kidney stones begin their journey in the kidneys, which filter waste from the blood to produce urine. Urine, along with any stones, then travels down narrow tubes called ureters, connecting the kidneys to the bladder. The bladder stores urine until it is expelled from the body through the urethra.
Pain often arises when a stone obstructs or irritates a ureter, causing urine to back up and the ureter to spasm. Stone size influences passage; stones under 4 millimeters (mm) may pass in one to two weeks, while larger ones can take several weeks. Passage times vary depending on the stone’s size and location.
Signs Your Kidney Stone is Moving
A primary indicator of a moving kidney stone is renal colic, which manifests as sharp, cramping pain in the back and side, often radiating to the lower abdomen or groin. This pain comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity as the ureter attempts to push the stone along. The pain’s location can shift as the stone progresses down the urinary tract, potentially moving from the flank area towards the pelvis or genital region.
Changes in urination patterns are common, including a frequent and urgent need to urinate, sometimes with only small amounts of urine passed. Painful urination, known as dysuria, can occur as the stone nears the bladder. Blood in the urine, or hematuria, can appear as pink, red, or brown, though it may also be microscopic.
Many individuals experience gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting. This occurs due to shared nerve pathways between the kidneys and the digestive system, where intense pain can trigger an upset stomach. Restlessness and an inability to find a comfortable position are also common.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Help
Certain symptoms accompanying a moving kidney stone indicate a need for urgent medical evaluation to prevent serious complications. The presence of a fever and chills, especially alongside pain, can signal a kidney infection (pyelonephritis) or another infection in the urinary tract, which requires prompt treatment and can escalate rapidly.
Pain that becomes unmanageable, persisting despite pain relievers, warrants immediate medical attention. An inability to urinate suggests a complete blockage of the urinary tract, which can lead to kidney damage if not addressed quickly. Severe nausea and vomiting can also cause significant dehydration, necessitating professional medical care. Any new or worsening symptoms should prompt a visit to an emergency room.
After the Stone Passes
Once a kidney stone has passed, there is a sudden and noticeable relief of the intense pain. While some lingering discomfort may occur, the acute pain usually subsides. To confirm passage and aid in future prevention, straining urine to collect the stone for analysis is recommended.
After the stone has passed, consulting a doctor for follow-up care is important. This allows for analysis of the collected stone, which can help determine its composition and guide preventative measures to reduce the risk of future stones.