Kidney stones are infamous for causing some of the most intense pain a person can experience. However, what if the excruciating pain you’re feeling isn’t a kidney stone at all?

Surprisingly, a number of medical conditions can mimic the symptoms of kidney stones, leading to confusion and misdiagnosis. By understanding these conditions and how they overlap with kidney stone symptoms, you can take more informed steps toward getting the right diagnosis and treatment.

Recognising the symptoms of kidney stones

Before diving into the conditions that might mimic kidney stone pain, let’s first establish what kidney stone symptoms typically look like. Common signs include:

This pain often comes in waves and can shift as the stone moves through your urinary tract.

It’s worth noting that kidney stone pain can be so intense that many people describe it as more severe than childbirth. However, the overlap of symptoms with other conditions can make it tricky to identify the true cause without medical testing.

Conditions that can mimic kidney stone pain

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

A urinary tract infection can cause pain similar to that of kidney stones, especially when the infection spreads to the kidneys (pyelonephritis). You might experience flank pain, burning during urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. While kidney stones often block urine flow, UTIs result from bacterial growth and inflammation.

In the UK, UTIs are particularly common, with women being more likely to experience them than men. If you’re experiencing symptoms that overlap with kidney stones, such as lower abdominal discomfort and a strong urge to urinate, it’s crucial to rule out a UTI through a urine test.

2. Gallstones

Gallstones might not seem related to kidney stones, but they can cause pain that mimics kidney stone attacks. Located in the gallbladder, these stones lead to sharp pain in the upper abdomen or back. This pain can radiate and feel very similar to kidney stone discomfort. The key difference lies in the location of the pain and its triggers – gallstone pain is often associated with eating fatty foods.

Read more: What Is The Difference Between Gallstones & Kidney Stones?

3. Appendicitis

Appendicitis, or inflammation of the appendix, can present with symptoms that overlap with kidney stone pain, particularly in its early stages. Pain often begins near the belly button and shifts to the lower right abdomen, but in some cases, it can radiate to the side or back. Appendicitis is a medical emergency, so if you suspect it, seek immediate care.

4. Musculoskeletal Issues

Back pain from muscle strains, herniated discs, or other musculoskeletal problems can sometimes be mistaken for kidney stone pain. While musculoskeletal pain is more likely to worsen with movement or certain positions, kidney stone pain is constant and unrelated to posture.

5. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS affects around one in five people at some point in their lives. Its symptoms include abdominal cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, which can sometimes mimic the discomfort caused by kidney stones. However, IBS pain is typically linked to digestion and bowel movements, rather than urination.

6. Ectopic Pregnancy

For women of childbearing age, an ectopic pregnancy (where a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus) can cause pain similar to kidney stones. This condition often involves sharp, localised pain on one side of the abdomen, along with abnormal vaginal bleeding and dizziness. It’s a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

7. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can rupture or twist, leading to severe pain on one side of the lower abdomen or pelvis. This pain may radiate to the back, closely mimicking kidney stone discomfort. Unlike kidney stones, however, ovarian cyst pain is often cyclical, coinciding with the menstrual cycle.

8. Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis, an inflammation or infection of small pouches in the digestive tract, is another condition that can cause abdominal pain resembling kidney stone discomfort. This pain is typically located in the lower left abdomen and may be accompanied by fever and changes in bowel habits.

9. Shingles

Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, can cause pain that mimics kidney stones if it occurs on the back or side of the body. The pain often appears before the characteristic rash develops, leading to confusion.

10. Cancer

Certain cancers, such as bladder cancer or kidney cancer, can cause symptoms similar to kidney stones, including pain, blood in the urine, and frequent urination. While these cancers are less common, they should be considered if symptoms persist despite treatment for other conditions.

Final notes

While kidney stone pain is notorious for its intensity, it’s important to remember that several other conditions can produce similar symptoms. From urinary tract infections to ovarian cysts and musculoskeletal problems, the possibilities are varied. 

Seeking a timely and accurate diagnosis is essential to getting the correct treatment and preventing further complications. By staying informed and proactive, you’re better equipped to navigate the complexities of your health and find relief from your symptoms.

Related read: How To Stop Kidney Stone Pain Immediately.