Renal Colic

Renal colic is a type of severe pain that occurs when a stone (kidney stone) moves through the urinary tract and gets stuck, causing an obstruction. The pain is usually felt in the side or back, below the ribs, and can radiate to the lower abdomen or groin area.

Causes

Renal colic is typically caused by a kidney stone that has formed in the kidney and is trying to pass through the narrow tubes of the urinary tract. The stones can be made of various substances, including calcium, uric acid, or cystine. Other causes of renal colic include:

• Dehydration, which can cause a concentration of minerals in the urine that can lead to stone formation
• Family history of kidney stones
• Certain medical conditions, such as gout or inflammatory bowel disease
• Dietary factors, such as a high intake of animal protein, sodium, or sugar

Symptoms

The symptoms of renal colic can vary in severity and may include:

• Severe pain that comes and goes, often described as sharp, stabbing, or cramping
• Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen or groin area
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent or painful urination
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Feeling of restlessness or agitation due to pain

Diagnosis

Renal colic is typically diagnosed based on a combination of:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasound, to confirm the presence of a kidney stone
• Urinalysis to check for blood, protein, or other abnormalities in the urine

Treatment

The treatment of renal colic depends on the severity of the symptoms and the size and location of the kidney stone. Treatment options may include:

• Pain management with medications such as NSAIDs or opioids
• Fluids to help flush out the stone
• Medical expulsive therapy (MET) to help pass the stone, which may involve alpha-blockers or calcium channel blockers
• Surgical intervention, such as lithotripsy or ureteroscopy, if the stone is too large to pass on its own or is causing a blockage

Complications

If left untreated, renal colic can lead to complications such as:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Kidney damage or scarring
• Sepsis, a life-threatening condition that occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream

Prevention

To reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and renal colic, it is recommended to:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Maintain a healthy diet that is low in animal protein, sodium, and sugar
• Avoid foods that are high in oxalate, such as spinach or beets
• Limit intake of calcium supplements