Can kidney stones cause nausea and vomiting?
Aug 12, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
Kidney stones can cause nausea and vomiting. This commonly occurs due to acute intrarenal hypertension and hydronephrosis induced by the stone, which increases tension on the renal capsule and triggers reflex gastrointestinal spasm, leading to nausea and vomiting. Thus, in addition to the pain associated with kidney stones and upper ureteral stones, gastrointestinal symptoms may also be present—a common clinical response. If you suspect kidney stones, remain calm and seek prompt medical attention at a hospital.
Patients with kidney stones may initially experience no symptoms; however, once symptoms appear, they often manifest as severe pain in the flank and abdomen—pain so intense it becomes unbearable. Additionally, kidney stones can lead to various complications. So, can kidney stones cause nausea and vomiting?
Can kidney stones cause nausea and vomiting?
Yes, kidney stones can indeed cause nausea and vomiting. This commonly occurs when stones trigger acute intrarenal hypertension and hydronephrosis, increasing tension on the renal capsule and provoking reflexive gastrointestinal spasms, thereby leading to nausea and vomiting. Thus, in addition to the characteristic pain associated with kidney stones or upper ureteral stones, gastrointestinal symptoms—including nausea and vomiting—are frequently observed and represent a common clinical response. If you suspect kidney stones, remain calm and seek prompt medical attention at a hospital.
When stones pass into the lower ureter, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and flank pain typically diminish or resolve gradually. Following extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), as stones move away from the site of obstruction or enter the ureter, intrapelvic pressure decreases slightly, resulting in varying degrees of relief from nausea, vomiting, or pain. However, patients with long-standing urinary obstruction and severe symptoms require hospitalization and surgical intervention to relieve the obstruction and alleviate pain, nausea, and vomiting.
If you are diagnosed with kidney stones, timely medical evaluation and treatment are essential to prevent disease progression and associated complications. We hope this information has been helpful to you.
