Kidney stones typically cause severe pain in the flank area, which is on either side of the lower back just below the rib cage. This pain is often sharp, colicky, and can come in waves lasting 20-60 minutes as the stone moves through the urinary tract
. The pain can radiate from the flank to other areas such as:
- The lower abdomen
- The groin
- In males, down to the testes
Additional symptoms often accompany the pain, including:
- Frequent urge to urinate or pain during urination
- Blood in the urine (which may appear pink, red, or brown)
- Nausea and vomiting in severe cases
- Fever and chills if infection is present
Kidney stone pain is usually more severe and persistent than typical back pain and does not improve with changes in position. It often shifts location and intensity as the stone moves
. In summary, kidney stone pain is mainly felt in the side or flank below the ribs, radiating toward the lower abdomen and groin, and can be accompanied by urinary symptoms and blood in the urine
