Symptoms
Occasionally, kidney stones do not cause symptoms, and they leave the body in the urine. The condition, though, can cause severe pain.
Symptoms include:
- Sharp, stabbing pain in the lower back that may occur every few minutes lasting from 20 minutes to one hour
- Pain in the lower abdomen and groin area, labia, or testicles
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Burning pain during urination
- Fever
- Urinary tract infection
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include:
- Urinalysis—to look for blood, pus, bacteria, and crystals in the urine
- Blood tests—to check kidney function, calcium , and uric acid levels
- Urine culture —if infection suspected
- Spiral CT scan—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of the inside of the kidney
- Ultrasound —a test that uses sound waves to examine the kidneys
- Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) — special x-ray that produces images of the urinary system (less commonly used today)
- 24-hour urine—to check levels of many factors, including calcium , phosphorus , uric acid, oxalate, and citrate
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
More Kidney Stones Information
Improved
620 HealthChanged
293 LivesSaved
210 LivesPopular this Week
Connect with Women Like You 75 Women Care About this Condition
You're not alone. Connect with other women who are going through what you're going through, who understand and are here for you!
+ Join this Community
