Kidney Stone: Symptoms and How Stones and Sand Pass

Urolithiasis (kidney stone disease) is a condition in which concretions form in the organs of the urinary system: from fine-grained sand to stones of considerable size. Small stones often pass in the urine unnoticed, while large ones can become lodged in the urinary tract, block the outflow of urine and cause severe pain. Understanding how a stone moves and what signs accompany its passage helps to correctly assess the situation and seek help in time.

How a stone moves from the kidney through the urinary tract

A stone forms in the kidney from substances contained in the urine. From the calyceal-pelvic system it moves into the ureter, then into the bladder and is expelled through the urethra. While the concretion is small, it can pass the entire way without obstruction. If a stone becomes lodged in the ureter, obstruction occurs and renal colic develops — acute spasmodic pain in the lumbar region. Urolithiasis occurs at any age, more often from 20 to 50 years; the lifetime risk of developing it reaches 10%.

Symptoms of sand passing from the kidneys

Sand is a fine-grained, powdery form of concretions. Small stones often pass in the urine unnoticed, without any sensations. Symptoms appear, as a rule, with larger stones that can become lodged in the urinary tract.

Symptoms of a stone passing from the kidney

Pain from a stone usually begins in the flank or lower back and may radiate to the groin, in men — to the testicular area, in women — to the area around the vaginal opening. A wavelike pattern is characteristic: periods of severe pain alternate with subsiding or complete disappearance. Associated signs:

• high temperature, feeling hot, chills or shivering;
• nausea and vomiting;
• frequent urination;
• cloudy urine;
• burning during urination.

What is visible in the urine when a stone has passed

Blood in the urine is among the signs of stones that require medical attention. The urine may appear cloudy or have an unpleasant odor. After a stone passes, the doctor may ask you to collect the passed stone for examination. Analysis of the stone helps determine its nature — oxalate, urate, cystine or struvite (infectious).

Diagnosis of urolithiasis

The doctor often establishes the diagnosis based on complaints and history: clarifies past and current diseases, medications taken, dietary habits, and family history. Urine and blood tests are used. For severe pain, imaging is ordered: computed tomography for adults, ultrasound for pregnant women and children under 16. Ultrasound remains a common method, assessing dilation of the calyceal-pelvic system and ureter and the condition of the other kidney.

When urgent medical help is needed

If a stone is suspected and there is severe pain or an increase in temperature, emergency medical help is required. Warning signs are unrelenting pain in the back or flank, blood in the urine, fever and chills, vomiting, cloudy urine with an unpleasant odor, burning during urination.

The presence of a stone by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance; 103 or 112 — if severe pain in the flank or lower back is combined with high temperature and chills.

This material is for reference purposes and does not replace consultation with a doctor.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer