Kidney stones can cause some of the most severe pain imaginable. Often compared to labour pain, the sudden onset of sharp, radiating discomfort can leave sufferers feeling helpless.
Understanding how to relieve kidney stone pain swiftly and effectively is crucial, especially while waiting for medical assistance.
Why do kidney stones hurt so much?
Kidney stones are solid deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They develop when urine contains higher levels of substances like calcium, oxalate, or uric acid than it can dilute. While some stones are as small as a grain of sand and may pass unnoticed, others can be significantly larger, causing blockages and intense pain.
Kidney stone pain, medically known as renal colic, occurs when a stone moves or obstructs the urinary tract. The urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, is highly sensitive. A blockage can stretch and irritate the walls of these organs, triggering severe spasms and discomfort.
Common symptoms include:
- Sharp pain in the back, side, lower abdomen, or groin.
- Pain that fluctuates in intensity, often coming in waves.
- Nausea or vomiting due to the pain or the body’s reaction to the blockage.
- Frequent and painful urination if the stone is near the bladder.
- Blood in the urine caused by irritation from the stone’s movement.
You can read more about the first signs of kidney stones here.
How to relieve kidney stone pain immediately
1. Hydrate thoroughly
Staying hydrated is the most important step in passing a kidney stone. Fluids help flush the stone through the urinary tract and may reduce pain by promoting smoother movement.
- What to drink: Opt for water, herbal teas, or diluted fruit juices like lemon juice.
- How much: Aim for at least 2–3 litres per day. If nausea is present, start with small sips every few minutes.
- Avoid: Caffeinated, carbonated, or sugary drinks, as they can irritate the urinary tract or worsen dehydration.
2. Use heat therapy
Applying heat to the affected area can relax tense muscles, reduce spasms, and improve blood flow, which may ease the pain.
- What to use: A heating pad, hot water bottle, or warm compress.
- How to apply: Place the heat source on your back or side for 15–20 minutes at a time. Always use a towel or cloth to prevent burns.
- Why it works: Heat stimulates blood flow and soothes irritated tissues, helping to reduce pain intensity.
3. Over-the-counter pain relief
For immediate relief, non-prescription medications can help reduce the severity of pain.
- Options: Ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation or paracetamol, which is a good alternative for those who cannot take anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Avoid: Aspirin if there’s visible blood in your urine, as it can worsen bleeding.
4. Try a warm bath
Soaking in a warm bath can provide temporary relief by relaxing the muscles in your back and abdomen.
- How to do it: Fill the bath with comfortably warm (not scalding) water and soak for 20–30 minutes.
- Pro tip: Add Epsom salts to the water for added relaxation.
5. Encourage movement
While resting may seem natural, gentle movement can help dislodge a kidney stone and encourage its passage.
- What to try: Light activities like walking or pacing around the room. Avoid vigorous exercise, as it can worsen the pain.
- Why it helps: Movement can stimulate the urinary system, potentially shifting the stone to a less painful position.
When to seek medical help
While these methods can provide temporary relief, kidney stones often require professional intervention. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- Pain that persists or worsens despite home remedies.
- High fever or chills, as these may indicate a kidney infection.
- Difficulty urinating or complete inability to urinate.
- Severe nausea or vomiting that prevents fluid intake.
- Blood in your urine, especially in large amounts.
Medical options for kidney stone pain
- Stronger Pain Relief: For severe cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers such as opioids or administer them intravenously for rapid relief.
- Alpha Blockers: Medications like tamsulosin relax the muscles in the ureters, making it easier for the stone to pass.
- IV Fluids: In cases of dehydration or severe vomiting, intravenous fluids can help rehydrate the body and support kidney function.
- Surgical Intervention: If a stone is too large to pass naturally or causes complications, procedures such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) or ureteroscopy may be necessary.
Long-term strategies to prevent kidney stones
Once the immediate pain subsides, focus on preventing future kidney stones with these lifestyle adjustments:
Maintain optimal hydration
Drink enough water daily to produce pale, clear urine. Dehydration is the leading cause of kidney stones.
Modify your diet
- Reduce intake of high-sodium foods, as salt increases calcium levels in urine.
- Limit oxalate-rich foods like spinach, rhubarb, and chocolate if you are prone to calcium-oxalate stones.
- Monitor your protein intake, as excessive animal protein can contribute to uric acid stones.
Incorporate citrate-rich foods
Foods like lemons and oranges can help prevent stone formation by increasing urinary citrate levels.
Regular check-ups
Routine urine and blood tests can help identify potential issues early. Imaging tests, such as ultrasounds, may detect stones before they become problematic.
Don’t panic – quick relief is possible
Kidney stone pain can be overwhelming, but immediate relief is possible. However, persistent or severe cases should not be ignored, as they may require medical intervention.
Once the crisis is over, adopting preventative strategies can help reduce the risk of recurrence, ensuring you remain pain-free in the future. Always consult a healthcare professional for tailored advice, as each case is unique.