What is the link between kidney stones and painful urination?

Kidney stones are a common but painful condition that can cause significant discomfort, especially during urination. These solid deposits form in the kidneys and can vary in size. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for kidney stones can help those affected find relief and take steps to prevent future occurrences.

We speak to a renowned nephrologist who explains the link between kidney stones and painful urination.

What are kidney stones and how do they form?

Kidney stones are solid deposits of minerals and salts that develop within the kidneys. These stones develop when certain chemicals in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, become concentrated enough to crystallise and clump together. Most stones are small enough to pass out of the body unnoticed, but larger stones can become lodged in the urinary tract, causing significant discomfort and pain.

Kidney stones can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk, including dehydration, dietary choices, obesity, and certain medical conditions like gout. The process of passing a kidney stone can be painful, especially when the stone moves from the kidney to the ureter—a tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder—and eventually passes out through the urethra.

Why do kidney stones cause pain while urinating?

One of the hallmark symptoms of kidney stones is pain during urination. This pain occurs because the stone travels through the urinary tract, potentially scraping or blocking the ureter or urethra. When a kidney stone obstructs the ureter, it causes the flow of urine to slow down or stop, leading to swelling, pressure, and intense pain in the kidney area. As the stone moves closer to the bladder, you may feel an urgency to urinate more frequently, even if only small amounts of urine pass each time.

In cases where the stone is in the urethra, you may experience a sharp, burning sensation when urinating. Some individuals compare the pain to passing shards of glass, which can understandably be distressing. The size and shape of the kidney stone significantly influence how much pain you feel. While smaller stones may pass with mild discomfort, larger or jagged stones often cause more severe symptoms.

What are the  symptoms of kidney stones beyond painful urination?

While painful urination is a key symptom, kidney stones can cause a range of other symptoms, including:

Flank pain: Sharp pain in the side and back, typically below the ribs, which may radiate to the lower abdomen and groin. This pain is usually described as excruciating and can come in waves, fluctuating in intensity.

Blood in urine (haematuria): As kidney stones move through the urinary tract, they can irritate or damage the tissues, resulting in pink, red, or brown-coloured urine.

Nausea and vomiting: The intense pain of kidney stones can sometimes trigger nausea or vomiting.

Frequent urination: A constant urge to urinate is common as the stone nears the bladder.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a specialist, as these symptoms can also resemble other conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder infections.

How are kidney stones diagnosed?

When kidney stones are suspected, doctors may use a combination of urine tests, blood tests, and imaging techniques to confirm the diagnosis. Urine tests help identify any mineral imbalances that may contribute to stone formation, while blood tests can detect kidney function and any underlying health issues.

Imaging methods such as ultrasound, CT (computed tomography) scans, or X-rays are used to pinpoint the location, size, and type of the stone.

CT scans are often preferred because they provide a clear view of the urinary tract and can detect even small stones. Once the stone is located, a doctor can decide on the best course of action, which could range from home remedies to surgical intervention, depending on the severity.

When should you see a nephrologist for kidney stones?

You should consult a nephrologist for kidney stones if the stone hasn’t passed within a few weeks, if you’re experiencing severe pain unrelieved by medication, or if there’s recurring blood in your urine. Frequent kidney stones or a family history of kidney disease also warrant specialist care. Nephrologists can identify underlying causes, such as metabolic conditions or dietary factors, and develop personalised plans to prevent future stones.

Seeking a nephrologist's guidance can help ensure effective treatment, minimise complications, and protect your long-term kidney health. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a specialist.