Nowadays, every individual has a busy schedule, because of which they have unhealthy dietary practices and lack proper sleep. This has also increased the occurrence of kidney stones. According to research, 12% of the Indian population is affected by kidney stones.

In this blog, Dr. Niren Rao, a renowned kidney doctor in Delhi, has explained the signs of kidney stones that one should never ignore. Continue reading to learn more.

What Causes Kidney Stones?

An imbalance of the various chemicals in the urine can lead to the formation of stones. Calcium, oxalate, citric acid, uric acid, and cysteine are the most prevalent chemicals. Crystals occur when there is an imbalance of these substances, which results in excessive urine levels. Kidney stones develop when they build up in the kidney. Typically, they are caused by certain medical conditions, but certain lifestyle habits might also increase the risk of kidney stones.

Kidney stones cause severe pain and discomfort, especially when one ignores the warning signs. A bigger stone may block the ureter and result in more severe pain, which is typically felt in the lower back, right or left flank, or groin.  The discomfort may continue anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes, or even longer. Following are some of the signs that one should not ignore:

1. Kidney Pain: One could experience severe pain in the abdomen due to the buildup of stones. It is characterized by sudden and severe pain. At times, one could also experience back pain or pain in the genitals.
2. Blood in Urine: Blood in urine is also a common symptom of kidney stones, which is accompanied by abdominal pain. One could also experience unpleasant odors and discoloration. Discoloration could occur in the form of brown or cloudy urine. The friction between the stone and the ureter, which results in this bleeding, changes the color of the urine. However, there are some kidney stone injections that result in similar symptoms. Therefore, it is best to get the necessary tests as recommended by the urologist so that the condition can be diagnosed on time.
3. Painful Urination: People with kidney stones frequently experience painful and frequent urination. Since people urinate more frequently during the day, morning pain is more prevalent. One of the earliest and most prevalent signs is a frequent urge to urinate.
4. Fever, Vomiting and Nausea: Fever and chills can occur due to kidney stones. This happens because the body is unable to eliminate waste. Therefore, vomiting is the only way to get rid of toxins and make the kidneys work properly.
5. Repetitive Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Kidney stones can cause UTIs. If a UTI arises despite treatment or medications, it could be because of kidney stones.

Therefore, one should never ignore these signs, as they may trigger chronic kidney infections and kidney diseases. However, these signs are also related to the symptoms of kidney failure. It is advised to consult a urologist if one observes any of these warning signs and get a kidney test done to ensure the safe health of the kidneys.

Dr. Niren Rao is a leading kidney stone specialist in Delhi who has helped several people get rid of kidney stones. The most effective treatments for kidney stones performed by him include PCNL (percutaneous nephrolithotomy), RIRS (retrograde intrarenal surgery), Mini PCNL, URS (uretero-renoscopy), etc.

To avail the benefits of these amazing treatments, pay a visit to Dr. Niren Rao’s Urology Practice today!