Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain as they move through the urinary tract. While many kidney stones can pass on their own, others may require medical attention. Recognizing the symptoms and knowing when to visit an emergency room is key to managing this condition.
What Are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones form when certain minerals in your urine, like calcium or oxalate, become concentrated enough to crystallize. These stones can vary in size, from a tiny grain of sand to a larger pebble, but even the smallest stones can cause extreme pain when they pass through the urinary tract.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
Most people experience sudden, intense pain when a kidney stone starts to move. Here are the common signs:
- Sharp Pain in the Back or Side: The pain usually starts in the lower back or side and may radiate to the groin as the stone moves.
- Pain During Urination: A burning sensation while urinating can indicate the stone is nearing the bladder.
- Blood in the Urine: Kidney stones can cause small amounts of blood to appear in the urine, giving it a pink or reddish color.
- Frequent Urge to Urinate: As the stone moves through your system, it may make you feel like you need to urinate frequently, even if little urine comes out.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Intense pain can cause nausea or vomiting.
- Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine: If your urine appears cloudy or has a strong odor, it could indicate an infection.
What Does Kidney Stone Pain Feel Like?
Kidney stone pain is often described as one of the worst types of pain a person can experience. It’s sharp, sudden, and can come in waves as the stone moves through the urinary tract. The pain can shift locations, starting in the back and moving to the lower abdomen or groin.
When to Visit the Emergency Room
While many stones pass on their own, there are times when a trip to the ER is necessary. You should seek emergency care if:
- The pain is unbearable: If over-the-counter pain meds aren’t helping and the pain is extreme.
- You have a fever or chills: This can indicate an infection, which requires immediate attention.
- Blood is present in your urine: While a small amount of blood can occur, large amounts should be evaluated.
- You can’t urinate or experience severe nausea: These symptoms may suggest a blockage or dehydration, both of which need prompt care.
What Happens in the ER?
If you visit the emergency room for kidney stones, doctors will likely run imaging tests, such as a CT scan or ultrasound, to determine the size and location of the stone. They may give you stronger pain relief and medication to help relax your urinary tract muscles. In some cases, if the stone is too large to pass on its own, they may recommend surgery or other procedures to remove it.
Takeaway
Kidney stones can be a painful experience, but recognizing the symptoms early can help you get the right treatment. If you experience severe pain, fever, difficulty urinating, or signs of infection, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Quick action can prevent complications and get you back to feeling better faster.
This shorter blog aims to provide clear, actionable information without the fluff, ensuring you know when to take symptoms seriously and seek emergency care.
