When to Visit the ER for Kidney Stones: Key Symptoms and Considerations

## Understanding Kidney Stones and Their Symptoms Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can affect any part of your urinary tract, from your kidneys to your bladder, typically forming when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. ### Common Symptoms - **Severe Pain**: Often described as one of the most intense pains possible, occurring in waves in the back or side, below the ribs - **Hematuria**: Blood in the urine (pink, red, or brown-colored) - **Frequent Urination**: Increased urge to urinate, often in small amounts - **Nausea and Vomiting**: Often accompanies severe pain - **Fever and Chills**: May indicate an infection requiring prompt attention ## When to Visit the ER ### 1. Unbearable Pain If pain becomes unbearable and doesn't improve with over-the-counter medications, seek emergency care. The ER can provide stronger pain relief and evaluate the need for further intervention. ### 2. Severe Symptoms Requiring Immediate Attention * High fever (over 101.5°F/38.6°C) with chills * Persistent nausea and vomiting preventing liquid intake * Difficulty urinating or passing only small amounts * Heavy or persistent bleeding in urine * Signs of infection (cloudy or foul-smelling urine) ### 3. High-Risk Conditions Immediate medical attention is especially important for: * People with single kidneys * Transplant recipients * Those with compromised immune systems * Individuals with diabetes * Patients on blood thinners * Pregnant women ## What to Expect at the ER 1. **Initial Assessment**: Healthcare provider evaluation of symptoms and medical history 2. **Diagnostic Procedures**: - CT scan or ultrasound - Urinalysis - Blood tests - Physical examination 3. **Treatment**: May include pain management, hydration, and possible surgical intervention ## Prevention and Management ### While Waiting for Care 1. Drink plenty of water (2-3 liters daily) 2. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed 3. Use a heating pad on the affected area 4. Stay mobile if possible ### Long-term Prevention * Reduce sodium intake * Limit animal protein * Avoid foods high in oxalate * Increase citrus fruit consumption * Regular hydration monitoring * Periodic imaging studies * Follow recommended dietary supplements > **Important Note**: If unsure about symptom severity, contact your healthcare provider or local nurse hotline for guidance. It's better to err on the side of caution when dealing with potential kidney stones. For more detailed information about kidney stones and their treatment, visit the [National Kidney Foundation](https://www.kidney.org/), [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/), or [National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease).

When to Visit the ER for Kidney Stones: Key Symptoms and Considerations

Related articles