What should you know about men passing kidney stones?

A stone can move from the kidney into the tube leading to the bladder. Pain may start in the side or back and travel towards the lower abdomen or groin. It can come in waves as the urinary tract contracts. Blood in the urine, nausea, vomiting, urgency, or burning may occur. Dehydration can make urine more concentrated and may contribute to stone formation. Symptoms alone cannot show the stone's size or whether urine flow is blocked.

Arrange a GP Consultation for assessment, especially if this is your first suspected stone. Follow the clinician's advice about fluids and pain relief; do not force large amounts of fluid if you are vomiting or have been told to restrict fluids. An Abdominal Ultrasound may help assess the kidneys and urinary tract. Keep any passed stone if asked, because testing it can help guide prevention.

Seek urgent medical care for fever, chills, repeated vomiting, worsening pain, faintness, visible blood with clots, or new Difficulty Passing Urine. A blocked urinary tract with infection can become serious. Prompt assessment is also sensible when pain is sudden and severe or when you have one functioning kidney.

Ask whether imaging is needed, how to use prescribed pain relief, which symptoms mean emergency care, and whether a passed stone should be analysed. Discuss ways to reduce recurrence, including hydration suited to your health.