Kidney stones and constipation: what to know

A stone moving through the urinary tract can cause waves of flank or abdominal pain, nausea and painful urination. Constipation can cause bloating, cramping and difficulty opening the bowels. Pain from either problem may make you move less and drink less, which can worsen constipation and contribute to dehydration.

The location and pattern of pain can help, but they do not confirm the cause. Blood in urine, burning when passing urine, frequent urges or difficulty passing urine point toward a urinary problem. A new change in bowel habit, swollen abdomen or inability to pass stool or gas needs separate attention.

Note when the pain began, where it is, whether urine or bowel movements have changed, and any medicines you have taken. Gentle movement and fibre-rich foods may help ordinary constipation, unless vomiting or severe abdominal pain makes eating difficult. Ask a pharmacist or clinician before using laxatives if you have significant pain or possible obstruction.

A GP consultation can help distinguish the problems and decide whether urine tests, blood tests or an abdominal ultrasound are appropriate. Drink fluids steadily if you can and if you have not been given a fluid restriction; avoid forcing large amounts when urine flow is reduced.

Get urgent help for severe or escalating pain, fever or chills, repeated vomiting, a swollen or rigid abdomen, blood in urine with pain, or difficulty passing urine. Seek prompt care if you cannot pass stool or gas and your abdomen is becoming more swollen. These features can signal obstruction, infection or another condition needing examination.

Ask whether the pain pattern fits a stone, constipation or both; whether a urine test or abdominal ultrasound is needed; which laxative and pain relief are suitable; and what symptoms should send you to urgent care.