Kidney stones are hard, pebble-like deposits that form in the kidneys. They are typically made up of calcium, oxalate, and phosphorous and can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball.
The most common symptoms of kidney stones are:
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Over half a million people go to emergency rooms every year for kidney stone problems. It is expected that one in ten people may have a kidney stone at some time in their lives. You must be thinking about how you will know if you have kidney stones and what are the first signs of kidney stones.
Kidney stones are hard, pebble-like deposits that form in the kidneys. They are typically made up of calcium, oxalate, and phosphorous and can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball.
Keep reading to gather more information regarding the signs and symptoms of kidney stones.
Kidneys are two bean-shaped organs on both sides of the spine in the abdominal cavity. They are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining the balance of electrolytes in the body.
Kidney stones are also known as nephrolithiasis and renal calculi. They are hard mineral and acid salt deposits that can develop inside the kidneys. They are created when the urine becomes too concentrated, allowing the minerals to crystallise and stick together.
Several factors may cause kidney stones, including diet high in protein, salt, and sugar, dehydration, certain medical conditions such as gout and inflammatory bowel disease, certain medications like diuretics, calcium-based antacids, large doses of Vitamin C supplements etc, genetic factors etc.
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The signs and symptoms of kidney stones in males and females are the same. Here is all the essential information you require regarding what are the early signs of kidney stones.
There are also kidney stones that generally do not cause any symptoms, known as silent kidney stones. They are usually discovered when imaging tests are done for other reasons. Some signs of silent kidney stones are:
Since you must have understood what are the first signs of kidney stones you should also know what may happen if kidney stones are left untreated. Kidney stones can have several risks if left untreated, including:
It is important to seek medical attention if you notice the first signs of kidney stones. Kidney stones can be formed because of multiple reasons, amongst which your lifestyle can be one of the main reasons.
There are several lifestyle changes you can do to prevent kidney stones formation:
By following these tips, you can help prevent the formation of kidney stones and maintain healthy kidney function.
If you want to know about what are the first signs of kidney stones since kidney stones can be a painful and potentially serious condition. It is generally recommended to consult a doctor, especially if you feel any signs of kidney stones like:
Several people experience a lot of discomforts, while others may feel nothing. It is better to be prepared for some discomfort, as most people feel a lot of pain while passing kidney stones.
Kidney stones are very common. While some stones can be passed naturally, some may require surgery. Any sharp or sudden pain in the abdomen can be the very early signs of kidney stone. You must visit a doctor if you suspect you have kidney stones, as they can cause significant discomfort and may require medical treatment.
If you have doubts about kidney stones, contact a HexaHealth expert TODAY! Our team of doctors will provide personalised care assistance at every step of the way, from guidance to after-care and resolve all the queries you may have.
The first signs of kidney stones may include abdominal pain, back pain, frequent urination, and blood in the urine.
The most common signs and symptoms of kidney stones include severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs, radiating pain to the lower abdomen and groin, pain in urination, pink, red or brown urine, nausea and vomiting, frequent urination, urgent need to urinate, difficulty urinating or a weak urine stream.
The signs of passing a kidney stone can include:
Kidney stones can be detected early through imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray. These tests can identify the presence of a stone in the kidney or urinary tract. However, it is also possible for kidney stones to go undetected until they cause symptoms or are found during a routine medical examination.
The most common symptoms of kidney stones in females are severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs, pain while urinating, and frequent urination. Other symptoms can include blood in the urine, nausea, and vomiting.
Kidney stone symptoms can start suddenly and can vary in intensity. Some people may experience severe pain that comes on suddenly and then goes away, while others may only have mild discomfort or no symptoms at all.
If you think you have a kidney stone, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can try to help manage your symptoms by staying hydrated, taking over-the-counter pain medication (ibuprofen), and Using a heating pad.
Kidney stones can be painful and potentially serious, but they usually do not require emergency medical treatment. However, in some cases, kidney stones can cause complications that may require immediate medical attention.
If kidney stones go untreated, they can cause severe pain and discomfort, as well as damage to the kidneys and urinary tract. In some cases, untreated kidney stones can lead to kidney infection, kidney damage, and even kidney failure.
The signs and symptoms of kidney stones in males can include pain in the side and back, painful urination, bloody urine, frequent urges to urinate, even when there is little or no urine in the bladder, nausea and vomiting, difficulty urinating or a weak urine stream.
Kidney stones can be silent, meaning that they do not cause any symptoms known as silent kidney stones. This can happen if the stones are small enough to pass through the urinary tract without causing any blockage or irritation. In some cases, people with kidney stones may not be aware that they have them until they show up on a routine imaging test or during a checkup for an unrelated health issue.
It is possible to have a kidney stone without knowing it for a long period, as kidney stones do not always cause symptoms. However, once the stone begins to move down the ureter and into the bladder, it can start causing symptoms.
Last Updated on: 29 September 2023
MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES
12 Years Experience
Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More
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