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Renal Colic: Symptoms

What are the symptoms of renal colic?

Symptoms of renal colic are related to the formation of crystals in the kidneys. These stones can block urine output, causing pain, swelling and infection.

Common symptoms of renal colic

You may experience renal colic symptoms daily or only occasionally. Any of these symptoms can be severe:

  • Abnormally colored urine
  • Fever with or without chills
  • Foul-smelling urine
  • Nausea with or without vomiting
  • Pain in the side, back, abdomen or groin that can be severe

Symptoms that might indicate a serious condition

In some cases, renal colic can be a serious condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. Seek immediate medical care if you, or someone you are with, have any of these serious symptoms including:

  • High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Inability to urinate
  • Severe pain
  • Uncontrollable vomiting
INTRODUCTION

What is renal colic?

Renal colic is a type of pain caused by kidney stones. Kidney stones are crystals that form from chemicals in the urine. Usually, a stone develops because too much of a single chemical is present in the urine. A stone may block the flow of urine and can cause pain if it travels down the tubes of the urinary tract.... Read more about renal colic introduction

CAUSES

What causes renal colic?

Renal colic is triggered by the buildup of crystals, or stones, in the kidneys. When these stones interfere with the flow of urine, they can cause the kidneys to swell, producing waves of pain (colic). Kidney stones can form for a variety of reasons.... Read more about renal colic causes

TREATMENTS

How is renal colic treated?

Treatment for renal colic and kidney stones involves reducing pain and breaking up the stones. In some cases, kidney stones may pass on their own, allowing symptoms of renal colic to resolve. However, it is common for kidney stones to recur. Drinking plenty of fluids may help the stone to pass and may lessen the pain of renal colic.... Read more about renal colic treatments

UP NEXT ›› Causes
Medical Reviewer: All content has been reviewed by board-certified physicians under the direction of Rich Klasco, M.D., FACEP. Last Annual Review Date: May 2, 2011 Copyright: © Copyright 2011 Health Grades, Inc. All rights reserved. May not be reproduced or reprinted without permission from Health Grades, Inc. Use of this information is governed by the HealthGrades User Agreement.

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