The Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Symptoms of kidney stones, called nephrolithiasis, include extreme localized pain, perspiration, and often an associated infection.

The most common symptom of kidney stones is a debilitating, shooting, intense pain anywhere in the abdomen. A kidney stone still lodged in the kidney would cause pain on one side, near your lower back.

If it has moved partly down your ureter, the passage connecting the kidneys to the bladder, the pain might originate in your lower abdomen, side, or groin. A strong, continuous pain might indicate that the kidney stones are stuck permanently and will not be passed without a doctor's intervention.

Other symptoms of kidney stones include clammy, cold, hot, or sweaty skin accompanying a fever or chills. Fever usually means the stone has caused a blockage, and your kidneys and urination cannot function normally.

This kind of infection must be treated with antibiotics, as well as by removing the kidney stones. You might also be tired, nauseated, not hungry, or experience diarrhea or constipation.

Kidney stones often do not cause any symptoms. Usually, the first symptom of a kidney stone is extreme pain, which begins suddenly when a stone moves in the urinary tract and blocks the flow of urine.

Typically, a person feels a sharp, cramping pain in the back and side in the area of the kidney or in the lower abdomen. Sometimes nausea and vomiting occur. Later, pain may spread to the groin.

Prompt medical attention for kidney stones is necessary. The symptoms of kidney stones may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis if the symptoms above occur.