If you’ve had kidney stones before, you probably know that they can cause intense pain that interrupts your day-to-day life. However, it’s possible to have a kidney stone and have no symptoms at all or only experience mild pain that’s manageable. Never skip your trip to the urologist if you suspect a kidney stone, because leaving a stone untreated can lead to permanent damage in some cases. For example, the stone can move into your ureter and cause an obstruction. If this happens, you’ll likely experience severe pain.
Keep in mind that the symptoms of kidney stones can be similar to symptoms associated with other conditions. What you assume is another stone could be anything from a urinary tract infection to appendicitis. That alone warrants an appointment with your doctor. Common symptoms of kidney stones include:
- Sharp pain in the back and side
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Pain or burning while urinating
- Frequent urination
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea or constipation
If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible to pinpoint the cause. Left untreated, kidney stones can wreak havoc on your body. As we mentioned above, stones can get stuck in your ureters and cause a blockage, leading to intense pain and other complications. If your ureter is blocked by a kidney stone, you could develop a kidney infection and even sepsis. Sepsis requires emergency medical treatment and can be fatal. In some cases, kidney stones can lead to chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. That’s why it’s crucial to get treated as soon as possible and talk to your doctor about ways to prevent them from forming again in the future. If you’ve had asymptomatic kidney stones, that doesn’t mean that you’re safe from future attacks of renal colic or kidney damage. Stay alert.
Even if kidney stones aren’t new to you, don’t just assume you can pass a stone on your own with plenty of water and rest. Many complications can be avoided with proper medical guidance and treatment. If you notice symptoms, play it safe and go get checked out immediately.
At Arkansas Urology, we’re here for you. Our patients’ health has been and will always be our top priority! Do you need to schedule an appointment? Contact us today or book your appointment online. We look forward to seeing you soon.
