What are the First Signs of Passing a Kidney Stone?

Kidney stones are a common and painful condition that can affect anyone. They can cause severe pain and discomfort and even lead to serious complications if left untreated. Knowing the first signs of passing a kidney stone can help you seek medical attention sooner and reduce your risk of complications. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the common signs and symptoms of passing a kidney stone and what to do if you think you may be passing one.

What is a Kidney Stone?

A kidney stone is a hard mass of tiny crystals that form in the kidneys when certain substances in the urine become too concentrated. These substances include calcium, oxalate, uric acid, cystine, struvite, and xanthine. Kidney stones can range from very small to large enough to cause blockages in the urinary tract.

Common Symptoms of Passing a Kidney Stone

The most common symptom of passing a kidney stone is intense lower back or abdomen pain. This pain usually comes on suddenly and may be accompanied by nausea or vomiting. Other symptoms include blood in the urine, frequent urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, chills or fever, and a burning sensation during urination. If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking medical attention immediately is important, as they could indicate something more severe than just passing a kidney stone.

Diagnosis & Treatment

If you think you may be passing a kidney stone, your doctor will likely order an imaging test, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to confirm the diagnosis. Once your doctor has confirmed that you have a kidney stone, they will recommend treatment options such as medication to help pass the stone or surgery if it’s too large to pass on its own.

Preventing Future Kidney Stones

Once you’ve passed your kidney stone, it’s important to prevent future stones from forming. The best way to do this is by drinking plenty of water throughout the day (at least eight glasses) and avoiding foods high in sodium, sugar, animal proteins, and oxalates (such as spinach). It’s also important to limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine as these can increase your risk of developing another kidney stone. If you think you might have a kidney stone, or you’ve had one in the past, it’s a good idea to meet with a urologist. Each patient is different and they can make recommendations for your body and lifestyle to help your kidneys function optimally. When you work with the team at North Georgia Urology Center you’ll find our team is well educated, professional with a focus on excellent patient care. We want you to feel your best all the time.

In conclusion, knowing what signs indicate that you may be passing a kidney stone can help you seek medical attention sooner rather than later, which could reduce your risk for complications associated with this condition. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your doctor immediately so they can diagnose and treat your condition appropriately. If you think you might be at risk for a kidney stone, contact us today; the North Georgia Urology Center professionals are here to help.