What should you know about effects of kidney stones?

A stone can move from the kidney into the tube carrying urine to the bladder. As it moves, it may cause waves of pain in the side or back that spread towards the lower abdomen or groin. A stone near the bladder can cause urgency or pain when passing urine. If urine flow becomes blocked, the kidney can become swollen and pressure can build. Dehydration may make stone formation more likely, but similar pain can have other causes.

Arrange medical assessment if you suspect a stone, especially if pain is new or strong. Follow advice about fluids and pain relief; do not force large amounts of fluid if you cannot pass urine or have been told to restrict fluids. A clinician may use your symptoms, urine tests and imaging such as an abdominal ultrasound to assess the stone and check for blockage. Keep any stone passed for possible analysis if advised.

Seek urgent care for severe or persistent pain, fever or chills, vomiting that prevents drinking, inability to pass urine, or feeling very unwell. Infection behind a blockage needs prompt treatment. Blood in the urine also deserves assessment, even when pain settles.

Ask where the stone is, whether urine flow is blocked, which pain medicines are appropriate, how to reduce recurrence risk, and whether follow-up imaging or specialist care is needed.