Though both men and women can get kidney stones, they are more prevalent in men, largely due to more metabolic waste, and a more complex urinary tract. Some of the main symptoms of kidney stones in men include pain in the back, abdomen, sides, and groin. An increased urge to urinate, sometimes accompanied by blood, is also a common sign of this condition. Nausea, vomiting, chills, and a fever can also show up, making any man suffering from kidney stones quite uncomfortable. Symptoms of kidney stones in men are usually only noticed when a medium or large stone is being passed, as most small stones can be passed without issue.
One of the most obvious signs of kidney stones in men is pain in the back and on either side, depending on which kidney contains the stone. The pain location usually moves as the stone continues on its way through the urinary tract, as many men begin to feel either cramping or sharp pains in their abdomen. This pain may also radiate to the pelvis or testicular region as the stone moves down to be expelled from the body.
Another common sign of kidney stones in men is the increased urge to urinate. Unfortunately, the stone can irritate the bladder and other areas of the urinary tract as it comes down, resulting in urine that appears orange or pink due to blood. In some cases, the urine can also have a strong odor, which may not help diagnose kidney stones on its own, but it can be a strong indicator when combined with other symptoms.
Most men feel generally ill when trying to pass a stone, as it takes a toll on the whole body. For example, the body tends to react to the pain with nausea, vomiting, and chills. Usually, the stronger the pain, the stronger these symptoms are. A fever may be present in those experiencing kidney stones, but it has more to do with an infection in the body than the stones themselves. Men who notice this and other symptoms should see a doctor to be diagnosed and treated.
In most cases, the signs of kidney stones in men will disappear once the stone has passed, which should happen naturally. On the other hand, a visit to a doctor can be helpful in deciding whether any treatment is needed. Most will pass on their own, but the patient may require pain medication to deal with the process. Stones that do not seem to be passing may need to be broken up into smaller pieces, which can be done using ultrasound.