Kidney Stone Symptoms: 4 Early Signs You Need to Know

Many people associate kidney stones with excruciating pain, but often, these stones develop without any noticeable symptoms, particularly in their early stages.

Understanding Silent Kidney Stones

Dr. Dr. Widi Atmoko, Sp.U(K), FECSM, FACS, a urology specialist, explains that kidney stones frequently go undetected until a medical examination is performed. “The most common presentation is actually a lack of symptoms,” he stated during the Grand Launching of SURE, the Summit Robotic & Endourology Institute, at Eka Hospital MT Haryono on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. “That’s why regular medical check-ups, at a minimum with an ultrasound, are so important.”

Did You Know? A kidney stone as small as 5 millimeters can cause significant pain as it travels through the ureter, a channel only 4 millimeters in diameter.

recognising the Signs

While often asymptomatic, symptoms can emerge when a stone begins to move or grows in size. recognising these signs is crucial for timely intervention.

Intense Flank Pain

One of the most common symptoms is severe pain in the lower back. Dr. Widi Atmoko notes that even relatively small stones can cause intense discomfort. This pain typically arises when a stone moves from the kidney into the ureter, the narrow tube connecting the kidney to the bladder.

The pain can radiate from the back down to the lower abdomen and groin.

Sand in Urine

Changes in urine can also signal the presence of kidney stones. Some individuals may notice small, sand-like particles when urinating. “You might see sand in your urine – not just urine, but small stones passing,” Dr. Widi explained. This can be easily mistaken for normal sediment, but should prompt medical evaluation.

Blood in Urine

As a kidney stone travels through the urinary tract, its rough surface can irritate and injure the lining of the ureter, leading to bleeding. This can manifest as red, brown, or blood-tinged urine. Dr. Widi notes that blood may not always be visible, but can be detected through testing. This symptom often accompanies pain as the stone moves.

Fever and Vomiting

If a kidney stone causes a blockage or leads to an infection, more severe symptoms can develop, including fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting. These indicate a developing complication requiring immediate medical attention. Nausea can also be a response to the intense pain caused by the stone.

Expert Insight: The lack of early symptoms highlights the importance of proactive health monitoring. Because kidney stones can remain undetected for extended periods, regular check-ups are vital for identifying and addressing the issue before it escalates into a more serious condition.

The Importance of Early Detection

Dr. Widi Atmoko emphasizes that kidney stones often remain asymptomatic until they become substantial. Routine health screenings are particularly important for individuals with risk factors. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and can prevent the development of more severe complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common symptom of kidney stones?

According to Dr. Widi Atmoko, the most common presentation of kidney stones is actually a lack of symptoms.

Where does the pain from a kidney stone typically radiate?

The pain from a kidney stone can radiate from the lower back down to the lower abdomen and groin.

What does it mean if there is sand in the urine?

Dr. Widi Atmoko explains that finding sand in the urine could indicate the presence of small kidney stones passing through the urinary tract.

Considering the often-silent nature of kidney stones, how might prioritizing preventative health measures impact long-term kidney health?