Severe Pain

Severe pain is usually the most prominent symptom of kidney stones. The pain which is present with kidney stones can be severe. The pain usually occurs when the kidney stone becomes lodged in the ureter which is narrow. The pain is usually present on one side of the body. The back or side of the body is usually where the pain is located. The pain is usually located below the ribs. The pain may not be stationary and may shift to another location such as toward the groin and lower abdominal areas. This movement and spread of pain is the result of the kidney stone moving further down the ureter and closer to the bladder. The pain associated with kidney stones is more severe when obstruction occurs in the urinary tract.

Discomfort with Urination

A person with a kidney stone may experience pain with urination. There may also be a burning sensation upon urination present with kidney stones.

Blood in the Urine

Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine. The urine may be red, pink or brown in color. The blood is a result of the kidney stone growing in size or attempting to pass through the ureter which is a narrow opening. However, the presence of blood may be so small that it may not be visible unless an examination is performed through a microscope.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting may be present with kidney stones. If the vomiting becomes severe, dehydration may result due to loss of fluids. It is important for the individual to drink plenty of fluids in order to remain hydrated.

Urinary Frequency

With a kidney stone, the individual may experience the urge to urinate frequently. Urinary frequency occurs when the kidney stone moves closer to the bladder which increases the pressure on the bladder.

Fever

If a kidney infection occurs along with the kidney stone, a fever may be present. The person may also experience chills as a result of the fever. 

Kidney stones may resolve on their own as they pass through the urinary tract with no presence of symptoms. Although smaller kidney stones are more likely to pass without pain or other symptoms, they can also create severe pain if obstruction occurs in the ureter. If someone experiences symptoms similar to those of kidney stones, he or she should see a doctor for treatment. This is especially true with signs of infection or the presence of nausea and vomiting.