Groin pain and kidney stones: what to know

A stone can irritate or partly block the tube carrying urine from a kidney to the bladder. This may produce intense pain that comes in waves and shifts from the side or back towards the lower abdomen, groin or genital area. Nausea, vomiting, blood in urine, painful urination or an urge to pass urine may occur. Dehydration can make urine more concentrated, but it is not the only possible factor. Similar discomfort can come from abdominal, urinary or muscle problems, so the pattern alone cannot confirm a stone.

Contact a GP for assessment if the pain is persistent, recurrent, or accompanied by urinary changes. A consultation may include questions about previous stones, medicines, fever and urine output, followed by urine or blood testing. An abdominal ultrasound may be considered to look for obstruction or another cause. Drink normally unless you have been advised to limit fluids; forcing large amounts can worsen discomfort when urine flow is blocked. Use only pain relief that is suitable for you and follow its label or clinical advice.

Go to urgent care for fever, chills, repeated vomiting, worsening pain, marked weakness, confusion, inability to pass urine, or pain with a single functioning kidney or known kidney disease. A blocked urinary tract with infection can become serious and requires prompt treatment.

Ask whether the symptoms fit a stone, which test is appropriate, how to control pain, how to monitor urine output, and what symptoms mean you should return urgently.