About the Health Information

Many people first notice a kidney stone when severe discomfort develops in the side or lower back.

Other warning signs may include:

• Pain that spreads toward the groin
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blood in the urine
• Frequent urination
• Burning sensation while passing urine

While not every episode of side pain is caused by a kidney stone, severe or persistent symptoms should not be ignored.

A sharp pain in the side can be alarming, especially when it appears without warning.

Some people describe it as a stabbing sensation, while others experience waves of pain that become increasingly intense. As the pain may occur in waves, many people mistake it for a muscle or stomach issue.

One possible cause is a kidney stone.

Understanding how kidney stone pain feels and when medical attention is needed can help you take the right steps quickly.

Kidney stone pain often begins suddenly.

Many people experience:

• Sharp pain in the side or back
• Pain below the ribs
• Discomfort that comes in waves
• Pain that changes intensity
• Pain that travels toward the lower abdomen or groin

The exact location may vary depending on where the stone is within the urinary tract.

Kidney stones develop when minerals in the urine collect and gradually solidify within the kidneys.

Pain usually develops when a stone begins moving through the urinary tract.

As the stone travels, it may:

• Irritate surrounding tissues
• Restrict urine flow
• Trigger muscle spasms in the ureter

This combination can cause severe discomfort that often requires medical attention.

In addition to side pain, you may notice:

Pain That Moves

Discomfort may start in the flank and gradually move toward the lower abdomen or groin.

Nausea and Vomiting

The body’s response to intense pain can sometimes trigger nausea or vomiting.

Changes in Urination

You may experience:

• Frequent urination
• Urgency to urinate
• Burning during urination

Blood in the Urine

Urine may look different than usual if a stone causes minor bleeding within the urinary tract.

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Severe pain that does not improve
• Fever or chills
• Persistent vomiting
• Difficulty passing urine
• Visible blood in the urine
• Symptoms accompanied by weakness or dehydration

These signs may indicate a complication that requires urgent treatment.

Yes.

Side pain can occur for several reasons, including:

• Muscle strain
• Urinary tract infection
• Appendicitis
• Gallbladder disease
• Gastrointestinal conditions

Because symptoms can overlap, medical evaluation is often needed to determine the cause.

Doctors may recommend:

• Urine tests
• Blood tests
• Ultrasound
• CT scan

These investigations help confirm the presence, size, and location of a kidney stone.

The treatment approach varies based on the stone’s size and location.

Small stones may pass naturally with:

• Increased fluid intake
• Pain-relieving medications
• Medicines that help relax the urinary tract

Larger stones may require:

• Laser stone treatment
• Endoscopic stone removal
• Other minimally invasive procedures

Healthy daily habits may help reduce the risk of kidney stones.

Stay Hydrated

Adequate water intake helps dilute substances that can contribute to stone formation.

Limit Excess Salt

High sodium intake may increase the risk of certain types of kidney stones.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

A varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables can support urinary health.

Follow Medical Advice

Individuals with a history of stones may require specific dietary modifications based on the stone type.

“Many patients initially assume severe side pain is related to a muscle problem. However, kidney stone pain often develops suddenly and can become intense very quickly. Early evaluation helps uncover the cause and direct further care.”

– Dr. Sudharsan S B, Senior Consultant & Clinical Lead, Department of Urology, MGM Healthcare

Sudden side pain should never be ignored, especially when it is severe or associated with urinary symptoms.

While kidney stones are a common cause, other medical conditions can produce similar symptoms.

Seeking timely medical evaluation can help identify the cause, relieve discomfort, and prevent complications.

Dr. Sudharsan S B is the Senior Consultant & Clinical Lead in the Department of Urology at MGM Healthcare.

His clinical focus includes kidney stone care, endourology, urinary disorders, and minimally invasive urological treatments.

Experiencing severe side pain, urinary symptoms, or concerns about kidney stones?

Consult Dr. Sudharsan S B and the Urology team at MGM Healthcare for expert evaluation and personalised treatment.