Kidney stones are salt deposits and hard minerals in the kidneys. They can be tiny, like a grain of sand or larger, like a marble. It can be caused by certain substances in the urine. This includes oxalate, calcium, and uric acid, building up and forming solid crystals. These crystals can then clump together and create the stone. Various factors like dehydration, several diets, family history, and several medical conditions can raise the risk of developing kidney stones.
In this blog, we will discuss various symptoms of kidney stones so that proper and timely medical intervention can be made, as and when required.
Symptoms of Kidney Stone
Some most common signs of kidney stones are as follows.
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Pain
One of the most common symptoms of kidney stones is pain. You may feel a sharp, cramp-like pain in your back or side, just below your ribs. This pain can come and go, and it might move down towards your lower abdomen and groin area. The pain intensity can be mild to very severe.
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Frequent Urination
Kidney stones can irritate your urinary tract, making you feel you need to pee more often. You might not pass much urine even when you go to the bathroom.
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Blood in Urine
Sometimes, kidney stones can cause blood to appear in your urine, giving it a pink, red, or brownish colour. If you notice any unusual colour in your pee, it is essential to tell a grown-up, like your parents or a teacher, so they can help you see a doctor.
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Nausea
If you have a kidney stone, you might feel nauseous and even vomit. This occurs because your body is trying to handle the pain and discomfort caused by the stone.
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Cloudy or Foul-smelling Urine
A common sign of kidney stones is urine looking cloudy or smelling bad. It is another sign that something might not be right with your kidneys.
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Difficulty Passing Urine
Kidney stones can sometimes block urine flow, making it hard to pee. This can be frustrating and might make you feel uncomfortable.
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Fever
Your body temperature might rise, and you feel shivery and cold. This happens when the stone causes a blockage or infection in the urinary tract, leading to these flu-like symptoms.
Given today's sedentary lifestyle, following preventive measures for kidney stones is crucial. One of the most effective ways to maintain kidney health is by staying hydrated - drinking ample water daily. This will aid in flushing out harmful substances and preventing mineral accumulation that may lead to stone formation. In addition to proper hydration, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can mitigate the risk of kidney stones. Kidney stones are curable. However, to ensure timely medical attention, one should be aware of the symptoms of kidney stones. Having health insurance can help manage medical expenses related to diagnosis and treatment effectively.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.