What are the First Signs of Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salt. Concentrated urine creates an ideal environment for the minerals to turn into crystals, which may stick together and form stones. Kidney stones do not cause symptoms until they enter the ureters (the tubes connecting kidneys to the bladder) and get stuck there. This can block urine flow. See a kidney stone specialist in Navi Mumbai if you experience the symptoms mentioned below.
Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones
- Severe Pain in the Back and Sides: The most obvious symptom of kidney stones is severe pain in the back and sides. The pain is so extreme that many patients compare it with labor pain or the pain from getting stabbed with a knife. It occurs when the stone enters one of the ureters, causing blockage. The pain starts suddenly and might radiate to the abdomen and groin. It can come in waves. The location of the pain may change as the stone moves.
- Painful Urination: Another sign of kidney stones is painful urination, often described as a burning sensation when you pee. People often mistake it for a urinary tract infection. Those with kidney stones are at an increased risk of developing UTI, which makes it possible to have a kidney stone and a bacterial infection (both of which can cause painful urination).
- Blood in Urine: Also called hematuria, people with kidney stones might notice blood in the urine. It could be red, pink, or brown. Sometimes, the blood isn’t visible to the naked eye, but a urinalysis report can catch it.
- Cloudy and Foul-Smelling Urine: Your urine will be darker, appear cloudy, and have a strong odor, which comes from a bacterial infection (if you have a UTI). The smell can also be linked to the concentrated urine.
- Nausea and Vomiting: The extreme pain from kidney stones can trigger nausea and vomiting.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Most small stones do not require an invasive treatment. They might pass on their own through urine, although larger ones that cause excruciating pain and fever might need immediate kidney stone treatment in Navi Mumbai. Here’s what’s considered a medical emergency:
- Recurrent Kidney Infection: Blocked ureters create a place for the bacteria to thrive and reach your kidneys, causing an infection. It can cause fever, chills, pain, and nausea.
- Difficulty Passing Urine: If you have very little or no urine output, call emergency medical services right away. An entirely blocked urine flow can be life-threatening. It happens when kidney stones are large enough to block your urinary tract.
Preventative Measures and Lifestyle Changes
If you are at risk of kidney stones or have had one before and are worried about developing another, here are a few preventive measures you can follow to minimize your risk:
- Drink enough water to stay hydrated
- Limit your sugar and salt intake
- Eat a calcium-rich diet, but avoid supplements
- Manage your weight
- Avoid oxalate-rich foods
- Eat a balanced diet
Get Kidney Stones treatment as soon as you can
Kidney stones require treatment if they cause pain and other symptoms. The sooner you get treatment, the fewer the risks of complications. Head to the nearest urology center to get checked and treated.
