While kidney stones can occur as a result of physiologic dysfunction, studies have suggested that diets rich in fatty foods are more to blame. Some of the most common signs of a kidney stone in the ureter includes moderate to severe muscle aches that vary in location. Typically, these aches appear on the side of the body, though they can also rotate through the back and into the abdomen and groin. Other common symptoms include changes in urination, such as an increase in the need to urinate, or blood in the urine. Untreated kidney stones in the ureter can lead to nausea, vomiting, and a high grade fever.
One of the classic initial signs of a kidney stone in the ureter are muscle aches that are out of the ordinary. Typically, these aches begin in the side, and move towards the lower back. In addition, the pain may also radiate below the ribs in the back of the body, or may stay in the abdomen and move down towards the groin. While the pain associated with kidney stones in the ureter may have numerous points of origin, it most always produces a dull wave of pain that gradually increases in intensity as time goes on, lasting anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes at a time. These aches will not be able to be relieved through the use of over-the-counter painkillers, heating pads, or ice baths.
Another common sign of a kidney stone in the ureter is changes in urination. Typically, this includes an increased need to urinate, though some people may also experience pain during urination. In addition, other common changes in urination that may be experienced by those suffering from a kidney stone in the ureter may include blood in the urine, urine that has a cloudy appearance, and a very foul odor to the urine. In some severe cases, individuals suffering from the condition may experience a significantly decreased flow, or may not even be able to expel any urine at all.
In the most severe cases, when individuals suffering from a kidney stone in the ureter do not seek immediate medical assistance, nausea, vomiting, and a high fever may occur. In addition, while a kidney stone in the ureter is typically not considered to be life threatening, it can have serious implications when not treated properly. Research has found that untreated kidney stones can lead to chronic urinary tract infections, and even damage to the kidneys themselves.