Why do kidney stones cause pain?
The kidneys filter out the liquid waste, collect it, then send it down two tubes (ureters) to the bladder. Most kidney stones are tiny, and pass through the ureters through the urethra and out of the body unnoticed. But when larger stones pass, they can stretch the ureter and can cause severe pain. If large enough, a kidney stone can get stuck and block the flow of urine. Problem kidney stones can range from the size of a pebble to as large as a pearl. Rarely they can even become the size of a golf ball. What are the symptoms? Symptoms of a kidney stone can occur off and on over a few days or longer, for as long as it takes to pass. Call the doctor if you have severe pain on your side, back, belly or groin, or urine that looks pink or red. Other symptoms may include: • Nausea and vomiting • Pain when you urinate • Urine that is cloudy or smells bad – if there is also an infection How are kidney stones treated? You may be able to pass a kidney stone by drinking lots of water. If the pai
