Side effects of kidney stones

A stone can irritate the urinary tract as it moves from the kidney towards the bladder. Pain may begin in the flank and travel towards the lower abdomen or groin, often coming in waves. Nausea, vomiting, blood in the urine, urgency and painful urination can occur. A stone that blocks urine flow can increase pressure in the urinary system and make passing urine difficult. Infection behind an obstruction can become serious. Read about [Kidney Stones](/conditions/kidney-stones/), [Flank Pain](/symptoms/flank-pain/) and [Painful Urination](/symptoms/painful-urination/).

Contact a GP or urgent care service for new severe pain, blood in urine, vomiting or urinary difficulty. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can assess symptoms, medicines and previous stones. Testing may include urine checks, blood tests or an [Abdominal Ultrasound](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/abdominal-ultrasound/) to look for obstruction. Sip fluids if you can keep them down and have not been told to restrict fluids, but do not force large amounts during severe pain or vomiting. Follow prescribed pain relief instructions and do not use leftover antibiotics.

Seek emergency help for flank pain with fever or chills, repeated vomiting, confusion, fainting, or inability to pass urine. These features can suggest infection or a blocked urinary tract and need rapid assessment. Seek prompt care for pain that is severe, persistent or accompanied by marked weakness. Dehydration can develop when vomiting or reduced drinking continues; see [Dehydration](/conditions/dehydration/) for warning signs.

Ask whether the stone appears likely to pass, what symptoms indicate obstruction, which pain medicines are safe for you, and whether imaging or specialist review is needed. Ask how to reduce the chance of another stone after its type or likely cause is assessed.