Can Kidney Stones Cause Abdominal Pain?

Sudden, intense abdominal pain can be alarming, especially when it seems to come out of nowhere. In many cases, the cause may be kidney stones. Yes, kidney stones can cause abdominal pain, and the discomfort can be severe. Although the pain often starts in the back or side, it commonly spreads to the lower abdomen or groin as the stone moves through the urinary tract.

This type of pain often comes in waves and may worsen without warning, making it easy to confuse with stomach or digestive problems. Recognizing these symptoms early and knowing when to seek care, such as visiting St. Michael's Elite Hospital for prompt evaluation, can help prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

H2: What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys when urine becomes too concentrated. This allows substances like calcium, oxalate, or uric acid to crystallize and form a solid over time.

These stones can vary greatly in size, from tiny grains of sand to larger stones that block parts of the urinary tract. Small stones may pass without noticeable symptoms, but larger stones often cause pain, burning during urination, or changes in urine color. If symptoms become concerning or painful, it’s important to contact us for proper evaluation and guidance.

How Kidney Stones Cause Abdominal Pain

Kidney stones cause abdominal pain because they disrupt the normal flow of urine and irritate sensitive tissues in the urinary system. The pain often changes location and intensity as the stone moves, which can make it confusing for many people.

Movement Through the Urinary Tract

When a kidney stone leaves the kidney and enters the ureter, the narrow tube that carries urine to the bladder, it can slow down or block urine flow. This blockage causes pressure to build up inside the kidney, leading to sharp pain that can spread from the side or back into the lower abdomen.

Pain Traveling Along Shared Nerves

The kidneys and abdomen share connected nerve pathways. Because of this, pain that starts in the kidney is often felt in the front of the abdomen, groin, or even the inner thigh. This nerve connection explains why kidney stone pain doesn’t stay in one spot and may shift suddenly.

Muscle Spasms and Cramping

As the ureter tries to push the stone forward, it may tighten and spasm. These spasms cause intense, cramp-like pain that comes in waves rather than staying constant, which is a classic sign of kidney stone pain.

Inflammation and Tissue Irritation

As the stone moves, it can scrape the lining of the urinary tract, causing irritation and inflammation. This irritation increases discomfort and can make the abdominal pain feel deeper, sharper, or more widespread.

Common Symptoms Along With Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain from kidney stones is often accompanied by other symptoms, including:

• Sharp or cramping pain in the side, back, or lower abdomen
  
  


• Pain that radiates to the groin
  
  


• Blood in the urine (pink, red, or brown urine)
  
  


• Painful or frequent urination
  
  


• Nausea or vomiting
  
  


• Fever or chills (may indicate infection)
  
  

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the size, type, and location of the kidney stone.

Home and Conservative Care

• Drinking plenty of water helps flush out small stones
  
  


• Pain relievers to manage discomfort
  
  


• Medications that relax the ureter and help stones pass more easily
  
  

Medical Treatment

• Prescription medications for pain or infection
  
  


• Shock wave therapy to break stones into smaller pieces
  
  


• Minimally invasive procedures or surgery for larger or stuck stones
  
  

 

Can You Tell If You Passed a Stone?

In many cases, yes, you may be able to tell when a kidney stone has passed. The most noticeable sign is a sudden relief of pain, especially if you were experiencing intense waves of discomfort that stop abruptly. This usually happens once the stone reaches the bladder and exits the body through urine.

You might also see the stone in your urine, particularly if you are straining your urine as advised by a doctor. Passed stones can look like tiny grains of sand or small, hard pebbles. Some people notice cloudy urine or small particles after passing a stone.

Other signs that suggest a stone has passed include:

• Reduced or completely resolved abdominal, back, or groin pain
  
  


• Improved urine flow without burning or pressure
  
  


• Disappearance of nausea or urinary urgency

 

When to See a Doctor?

Prompt evaluation helps prevent kidney damage and serious complications. Seek medical care if you experience:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
  
  


• Pain with fever or chills
  
  


• Difficulty urinating or blood in urine
  
  


• Nausea and vomiting that prevent fluid intake
  
  


• Pain that suddenly worsens or doesn’t improve
  
  

Key Takeaways

Kidney stones can definitely cause abdominal pain, often due to blockage, pressure, and nerve irritation as the stone moves. The pain may come in waves and spread to different areas, making it easy to confuse with other conditions. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking appropriate treatment can ease discomfort and protect your kidney health.