What are the First Signs of Kidney Stones?

Kidneys are two bean-shaped organs on both sides of the spine in the abdominal cavity. They are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining the balance of electrolytes in the body. 

Kidney stones are also known as nephrolithiasis and renal calculi. They are hard mineral and acid salt deposits that can develop inside the kidneys. They are created when the urine becomes too concentrated, allowing the minerals to crystallise and stick together. 

Several factors may cause kidney stones, including diet high in protein, salt, and sugar, dehydration, certain medical conditions such as gout and inflammatory bowel disease, certain medications like diuretics, calcium-based antacids, large doses of Vitamin C supplements etc, genetic factors etc.

The signs and symptoms of kidney stones in males and females are the same. Here is all the essential information you require regarding what are the early signs of kidney stones. 

1. Severe throbbing pain in the back, belly, or groyne: This pain may come and go and may be powerful enough to cause nausea or vomiting. 
2. Bloody urine: The presence of blood in urine, also known as haematuria, may indicate the presence of kidney stones.
3. Urinating more or less frequently: Changes in urinary habits, such as urinating more or less regularly, changing the colour or appearance of urine.
4. Foul-smelling or cloudy urine: It can be due to infection and inflammation caused by the presence of stones in the urinary tract. The foul smell can be due to bacteria or other microorganisms that have entered the urinary tract.
5. Fever and chills: If a kidney stone is causing an infection, a person may experience fever and chills.

There are also kidney stones that generally do not cause any symptoms, known as silent kidney stones. They are usually discovered when imaging tests are done for other reasons. Some signs of silent kidney stones are:

1. Abdominal pain,
2. Blood in the urine,
3. Urinary tract infections

Since you must have understood what are the first signs of kidney stones you should also know what may happen if kidney stones are left untreated. Kidney stones can have several risks if left untreated, including:

1. Obstruction of the urinary tract, which can cause severe pain and lead to infection, kidney damage, or even kidney failure.
2. Hypertension (high blood pressure) which can be caused if kidney stones lead to inflammation of the urinary tract.
3. Chronic kidney disease
4. Urosepsis (a serious infection of the urinary tract) which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
5. If a stone is blocking the ureter, and it is too large to pass, it can cause damage to the ureter or renal pelvis which might lead to chronic kidney disease or even renal failure.

It is important to seek medical attention if you notice the first signs of kidney stones. Kidney stones can be formed because of multiple reasons, amongst which your lifestyle can be one of the main reasons. 

There are several lifestyle changes you can do to prevent kidney stones formation:

1. Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to dilute the substances in urine that can lead to kidney stone formation. Aim for drinking at least eight glasses of water per day.
2. Healthy diet: Focus on eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Since a diet high in calcium, oxalates, and animal protein can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. 
3. Limit salt and animal protein: Excess salt and animal protein can increase the risk of kidney stones. Try to limit your intake of salty foods and choose plant-based proteins, such as beans and lentils, instead of animal proteins.
4. Get enough calcium: While a diet high in calcium may increase the risk of kidney stones, getting enough calcium is essential for overall health. Try to get calcium from food sources, like dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and nuts, rather than supplements.
5. Stay active: Exercise can help to prevent kidney stones by promoting healthy urine flow and reducing the concentration of substances in your urine that can lead to kidney stone formation.

By following these tips, you can help prevent the formation of kidney stones and maintain healthy kidney function.

If you want to know about what are the first signs of kidney stones since kidney stones can be a painful and potentially serious condition. It is generally recommended to consult a doctor, especially if you feel any signs of kidney stones like:

1. Cruciating pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen, radiating pain to the groyne or genitals
2. Pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting
3. Blood in the urine
4. Frequent urge to urinate, especially if accompanied by pain or burning
5. Difficulty urinating or a weak urine stream

Several people experience a lot of discomforts, while others may feel nothing. It is better to be prepared for some discomfort, as most people feel a lot of pain while passing kidney stones. 

Kidney stones are very common. While some stones can be passed naturally, some may require surgery. Any sharp or sudden pain in the abdomen can be the very early signs of kidney stone. You must visit a doctor if you suspect you have kidney stones, as they can cause significant discomfort and may require medical treatment. 

If you have doubts about kidney stones, contact a HexaHealth expert TODAY! Our team of doctors will provide personalised care assistance at every step of the way, from guidance to after-care and resolve all the queries you may have.