CKD and kidney stones: what to know

Kidney stones are solid deposits that can move through the urinary tract. A stone may cause flank or abdominal pain, painful urination, blood in the urine, nausea, or difficulty passing urine. These symptoms can have other causes, and a symptom does not establish that a stone is present. With CKD, a blocked urine flow, dehydration, or infection may place additional strain on already reduced kidney function.

Assessment may involve a urine sample, blood tests, an examination, and imaging such as an Abdominal Ultrasound. The safest test and treatment depend on kidney function, the suspected stone's position, symptoms, and whether infection is possible.

Contact a GP or urgent-care service for significant or persistent pain, urinary symptoms, or vomiting. Take medicines only as advised; some pain medicines are not suitable for everyone with CKD. Do not force large amounts of fluid if you have been given a fluid restriction or are vomiting. Follow the plan for hydration supplied by your clinician, and keep any stone or urine sample if you are told it may help identify the cause.

Seek urgent assessment for fever or chills with flank pain, inability to pass urine, severe or escalating pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, or feeling acutely unwell. A blocked infected urinary system can deteriorate quickly, and people with CKD should not delay care while waiting for symptoms to settle. Emergency help is appropriate for collapse, confusion, or severe weakness.

Ask whether your symptoms need same-day assessment, which pain relief is suitable for your kidney function, whether imaging is needed, and how much fluid is appropriate for you. Ask how to recognise infection and whether a follow-up urine or blood test is planned.