Symptoms of urinary stones

Most people with urinary tract calculi are asymptomatic. Pain is the most common symptom and may be sharp or dull, constant, intermittent or colicky. When urinary tract obstruction is present, measures that increase urine volume, such as copious fluid intake or diuretics, including alcohol, make the pain worse.

Clinical features of urinary tract stones

Physical exertion may cause mobile calculi to move, precipitating pain and, occasionally, haematuria (blood in the urine) . Ureteric colic occurs when a stone enters the ureter and either obstructs it or causes spasm during its passage down the ureter. This is one of the most severe pains known. Radiation from the flank to the to the lower abdomen and testis or labium in the distribution of the first lumbar nerve root is common. Pallor, sweating and vomiting often occur and the patient is restless, tending to assume a variety of positions in an unsuccessful attempt to obtain relief from the pain. Haematuria often occurs. Untreated, the pain of ureteric colic typically subsides after a few hours. When urinary tract obstruction and infection are present, the features of acute pyelonephritis or of a Gram negative septicaemia may dominate the clinical picture.


Vesical calculi associated with bladder bacteriuria may present with frequency, dysuria and haematuria; severe introital or perineal pain may occur. A calculus at the bladder neck or an obstruction in the urethra may cause bladder outflow obstruction, resulting in anuria (complete stoppage of urine) and painful bladder distension.

History of the following is often present:

-occupation and residence in hot countries likely to be associated with dehydration
-a history of vitamin D consumption
-gouty arthritis.

Causes of Urinary stone formations
Symptoms of urinary stones
Investigations and treatment of urinary stones