In recent decades, the incidence of Americans who experience kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) has been increasing, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). The cause of this increase in kidney stone occurrence isn't yet understood. The kidneys help to maintain proper levels of salts in the blood and also work to create hormones that are part of red blood cells and bones. The kidneys also work to remove toxins and water from blood. Tubes leave each kidney to send urine to the bladder; A kidney stone in the ureter tubes may become problematic. A kidney stone may be as tiny as the top of a pin or as large as a golf ball. Kidney stones develop more often in men than women. The typical age for development of this disorder is age 40 to in the 70s. There may be a familial link to make a patient more prone to develop kidney stones. Sometimes kidney stones are asymptomatic. Other times they cause symptoms that are quite noticeable.
Strong Pain
When a kidney stone travels throughout the tube of the urinary tract, it may block urine flow and intense pain may begin. The pain is typically felt in the areas behind and to the side of the kidney or in the lower stomach. Pain may also eventually spread to the genital area.
Increase in Temperature and Chills
A fever and onset of chills may be an indication of kidney stones. These serious symptoms typically indicate that an infection has started.
Pink Urine
Kidney stones may cause a pink hue to the urine. This occurs when a large kidney stone affects the walls of the ureter and blood is released into the urine.
Frequent Urination and Pain with Urination
A kidney stone trying to pass into the bladder from the ureter tube may cause a feeling of a strong need to urinate. It may also cause a burning feeling while urinating. Changes in urinary habits that come on suddenly may indicate kidney stones.
Cloudy Appearance or Foul Smell to Urine
Urine that has developed a cloudy look or a foul smell may be a sign of kidney stones, says the National Institutes of Health. If the look or odor of urine changes significantly, this may be a sign that kidney stones are present.
Stomach Upset
An upset stomach may occur with kidney stones. Nausea and vomiting are typical symptoms of this disorder.
