About this condition
Urinary stone disease develops when calculi form in the kidneys or elsewhere in the urinary tract. Some stones are found incidentally, while others obstruct urine flow and produce intense pain.
What matters most
Renal colic often causes sudden pain in the side or back that can travel toward the groin. Pain alone does not establish a stone, and a stone can be present without pain. Size, position and obstruction affect the next steps.
Symptoms and reasons to seek help
Possible symptoms include wave-like flank pain, nausea, vomiting, frequent urinary urges and blood in urine. Fever, chills, inability to urinate or rapid deterioration change the urgency substantially.
How it differs from similar conditions
Musculoskeletal pain, infections and other abdominal or urinary disorders can resemble renal colic. An infected obstructed kidney is particularly dangerous and is not managed like a small uncomplicated stone.
Assessment and investigations
A clinician considers urine results, kidney function and infection markers, then selects ultrasound, CT or other imaging as needed. Not every stone is seen equally well on ultrasound, and imaging decisions depend on the presentation.
Care options and limitations
Options range from observation and symptom control to a specialist procedure, depending on stone size, location and kidney function. Do not self-prescribe antibiotics or medicines advertised to “push out” stones without an assessment.
When emergency help is needed
Severe flank pain with fever or chills, inability to pass urine, suspected infected obstruction or major deterioration needs immediate medical assessment. Call 103 or 112 for a serious condition instead of waiting for a routine urology appointment.
Related information
Blood in urine (haematuria); Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
Signs and symptoms
Possible symptoms include wave-like flank pain, nausea, vomiting, frequent urinary urges and blood in urine. Fever, chills, inability to urinate or rapid deterioration change the urgency substantially.
Diagnosis and tests
A clinician considers urine results, kidney function and infection markers, then selects ultrasound, CT or other imaging as needed. Not every stone is seen equally well on ultrasound, and imaging decisions depend on the presentation.
Care and treatment approaches
Options range from observation and symptom control to a specialist procedure, depending on stone size, location and kidney function. Do not self-prescribe antibiotics or medicines advertised to “push out” stones without an assessment.
When to seek urgent care
Severe flank pain with fever or chills, inability to pass urine, suspected infected obstruction or major deterioration needs immediate medical assessment. Call 103 or 112 for a serious condition instead of waiting for a routine urology appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Do kidney stones always hurt?
No. Some stones produce no symptoms and are found during imaging for another reason.
Is ultrasound enough to find every stone?
Not always. The clinician may choose a different imaging test depending on the symptoms and diagnostic question.
When is renal colic an emergency?
Pain with fever, chills, inability to urinate or severe deterioration can signal complications and needs emergency care.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
