Urinary calculi are solid deposits that form in the urinary system. These deposits are normally formed by excess calcium. The urinary system consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. These solid masses can occur in any part of the system. According to Merck, approximately one in 1,000 individuals is hospitalized each year as a result of the condition. Urinary calculi vary in size depending on their location in the body. In many cases the calculi pass through the system and resolve on their own. In some cases urinary calculi can produce symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Pain
Pain is a common symptom for those with urinary calculi. This symptom generally comes from an obstruction in the urinary system caused by the urinary stone. Pain can be experienced in the pelvic region, lower abdomen, back and flank area. Pain is usually acute and occurs intermittently as the calculi pass through various points in the system. In some individuals the abdominal area may be tender to palpation. A characteristic of pain caused by calculi in the urinary system is that pain is generally not relieved with a change in position.
Urinary Complications
In addition, individuals with urinary stones often experience urinary complications while suffering from the condition. Specific examples of symptoms include pain with urination, urinary frequency, urinary tract infection, and bleeding or hematuria. These symptoms usually occur once the calculi have traveled into the ureters or urethra. Bleeding may be a result of jagged edges of the calculi irritating or tearing the walls of the urinary tract, causing blood to enter the urine. In the event of a partial obstruction, the urine flow may be weakened or there may be interruption during urination.
Additional Symptoms
Additional symptoms that are related to urinary calculi include nausea, vomiting and fever. Nausea and vomiting may occur due to the pain and discomfort caused by the calculi or as a result of infection. Fever may be present, especially in cases where infection has developed. Men with urinary calculi commonly complain of penile pain or discomfort. This occurs usually once the stone reaches the lower portion of the urinary system.
