Introduction

Kidney stones are often thought of as a condition that primarily affects men, but the reality is that women are just as susceptible to this painful condition. In fact, recent studies show that kidney stones are becoming more common in women, particularly those of childbearing age. Unfortunately, many women fail to recognise or misinterpret the early signs of kidney stones, which can delay treatment and lead to complications. 

As a kidney specialist, I want to raise awareness about the symptoms of kidney stones in women that are often overlooked, and provide guidance on how to identify and manage the condition before it becomes severe.

Kidney Stones in Women: Symptoms That Are Often Overlooked

Kidney stones can cause excruciating pain, but the symptoms in women can sometimes be subtle or mistaken for other conditions. This can make it difficult to diagnose kidney stones early on. Many of the symptoms overlap with other common health issues such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or menstrual cramps, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Let’s take a closer look at the key symptoms that women may overlook:

1. Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Women

While kidney stones are typically associated with intense pain, the symptoms women experience can often be misinterpreted. Here’s what to watch for:

1.1 Abdominal and Lower Back Pain
Pain in the lower back or abdomen is one of the most common symptoms of kidney stones. This pain often comes and goes in waves and intensifies when the stone moves within the kidney or urinary tract. In women, this pain can be mistaken for menstrual cramps or even digestive issues.

1.2 Painful Urination
When kidney stones pass into the urinary tract, they can cause a burning sensation during urination. Many women mistake this for a urinary tract infection (UTI), leading them to treat it as a simple infection rather than a potential kidney stone. Persistent painful urination should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

1.3 Frequent Urination or Urgency
A frequent or urgent need to urinate is another symptom many women report. This can be confused with bladder issues or pelvic floor problems, but when combined with pain or discomfort, it may indicate kidney stones.

1.4 Nausea and Vomiting
Severe pain from kidney stones often triggers nausea and vomiting. Women may dismiss these symptoms as the result of a stomach bug or food poisoning. However, nausea and vomiting linked to kidney stones are typically the body’s response to intense pain.

1.5 Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
Blood in the urine is a classic symptom of kidney stones, though it’s not always visible. Even small amounts of blood in the urine can signal that a stone is moving through the urinary tract. If you notice pink, red, or brown urine, it’s important to seek medical attention.

2. The Risk of Overlooking Kidney Stone Symptoms in Women

When kidney stone symptoms are overlooked or misdiagnosed, the stones can continue to grow, causing more severe pain and potentially leading to complications. Delayed diagnosis can result in:

Infection
A stone blocking the urinary tract can cause infections, potentially leading to kidney infections that require more intensive treatment.

Kidney Damage
Prolonged blockage caused by untreated kidney stones can lead to kidney damage or even kidney failure in severe cases.

Increased Pain
Larger kidney stones can cause more intense pain and require more invasive treatments such as surgery.

3. Risk Factors for Kidney Stones in Women

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones in women, including:

Dehydration
Not drinking enough water is a major risk factor. Dehydration leads to concentrated urine, which can promote the formation of kidney stones.

Diet
Diets high in salt, sugar, and animal proteins can increase the risk of kidney stones. Women who consume large amounts of oxalate-rich foods like spinach, nuts, and chocolate are at a higher risk.

Family History
A family history of kidney stones increases the likelihood of developing them. Genetics can play a significant role in stone formation.

Obesity
Being overweight or obese can change urinary chemistry and increase the risk of kidney stones.

Chronic Conditions
Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and hypercalciuria (excess calcium in the urine) can increase the risk of kidney stones.

Pregnancy
Pregnant women are at higher risk for kidney stones due to hormonal and fluid balance changes.

4. How to Prevent Kidney Stones in Women

Although kidney stones can be a serious health concern, there are several steps women can take to reduce their risk:

4.1 Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent kidney stones. Aim for at least 2-3 litres of water daily to keep your kidneys functioning well and help flush out excess minerals.

4.2 Maintain a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting salt, sugar, and animal proteins can help reduce the risk of kidney stones. Reducing intake of oxalate-rich foods like spinach, nuts, and chocolate may also prevent stone formation.

4.3 Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and regulate blood sugar levels, both of which support kidney health. Exercise also helps with hydration, reducing the risk of stone formation.

4.4 Limit Calcium Supplements
While calcium is essential for bone health, excessive use of calcium supplements can increase the risk of kidney stones. Always consult with a healthcare provider before taking calcium supplements, particularly if you’re prone to kidney stones.

5. Treatment Options for Kidney Stones in Women

If you suspect you have kidney stones, it’s important to seek medical advice early. Treatment options vary depending on the size, location, and type of stone, but common methods include:

Medication
For smaller stones, pain relievers and medications that help pass the stone are often sufficient.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
This procedure uses sound waves to break up larger stones, making them easier to pass.

Ureteroscopy
A small tube is inserted into the urinary tract to remove or break up the stone.

Surgery
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove very large or complex stones.

Conclusion

Kidney stones are becoming more common among women, but many fail to recognise the early symptoms, leading to delayed treatment and complications. By understanding the signs, such as abdominal pain, painful urination, or blood in your urine, and taking steps to maintain kidney health through proper hydration, diet, and exercise, you can reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. If you experience any of these symptoms, I recommend seeking medical attention as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can help prevent further complications and ensure better kidney health.

If you or a loved one is dealing with kidney stones or other urological concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation (Dr Arif Akhtar). As an experienced kidney transplant surgeon, I can guide you through every step of your treatment journey.