Kidney stones are small deposits of minerals that crystallize to form hard stones in the kidney. Kidney stones an imbalance in the urine, as compounds such as uric acid and calcium build up and begin to crystallize. The symptoms of kidney stones aren't felt until a stone actually moves into the tube that links the kidney to the bladder---the ureter---and begins to travel through it. Such a process, known as "passing a stone," produces extremely painful symptoms.
Pain
The first sign in most cases is severe pain as the kidney stone moves into the ureter. The pain is the result of the muscles in the wall of the ureter contracting in an attempt to push the stone through to the bladder.
Location of Pain
The pain first felt from a kidney stone will be of the cramping variety and be very acute. The pain will radiate throughout the side of the affected kidney into the back. Pain may also radiate into the lower abdomen and the groin area.
Time Frame
The pain varies in intensity, going from severe to minor over the course of time. The pain comes in waves that last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.
Nausea
Vomiting and bouts of nausea may accompany the pain. If an infection develops, chills and low-grade fever are possible as well.
Effects on Urine
The urine may become clouded and smell awful, with blood sometimes showing up in the urine as the kidney stone makes its way through the urinary tract and into the bladder. Someone with a kidney stone may feel a constant need to urinate.
Complications
When a kidney becomes obstructed by a kidney stone, complications can occur. The urine will back up and kidney damage may result from the toxins contained in the urine.
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