Lupus and kidney stones

Kidney stones are solid crystals that can move through the urinary tract and cause severe pain. Lupus may affect kidney function, but a lupus diagnosis does not by itself confirm a stone. Flank pain, abdominal pain, painful urination, blood in urine, nausea, or difficulty passing urine can have several causes. A clinician may use urine testing, blood tests, and imaging such as an Abdominal Ultrasound to identify obstruction or another problem.

Arrange a GP Consultation for new, persistent, or recurring urinary pain, particularly if you have lupus or known kidney involvement. Bring a list of lupus medicines and previous stone or urine results. Drink fluids according to your clinician's advice; people with kidney or heart problems may need an individual fluid plan. Do not change lupus treatment or take leftover pain medicine without checking its suitability.

Get urgent medical help for severe or uncontrolled flank pain, fever or chills with urinary symptoms, repeated vomiting, inability to pass urine, faintness, or marked weakness. These features can occur with blockage, infection, or significant Dehydration. A sudden reduction in urine is especially concerning when kidney disease is possible. Emergency assessment is safer than waiting for a suspected stone to pass.

Ask whether your symptoms fit Kidney Stones, lupus kidney involvement, infection, or another cause; whether you need urine and blood tests; whether an Abdominal Ultrasound is suitable; and how much fluid is appropriate for your kidney function and medicines.