Kidney stones are commonly associated with severe pain in the back, sides, or lower abdomen. However, they can also be associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly when a stone blocks the normal flow of urine.
When urine cannot drain properly, bacteria may multiply in the urinary tract. The combination of an infection and a urinary blockage can become serious and may require urgent medical treatment.
Some symptoms of kidney stones and urine infections overlap, including burning during urination, frequent urination, lower abdominal discomfort, and blood in the urine. Recognising these symptoms and understanding when to seek medical attention can help prevent complications.
Can Kidney Stones Cause a Urine Infection?
Yes. Kidney stones can increase the risk of a urinary tract infection, especially when they obstruct the flow of urine. However, not everyone with kidney stones develops an infection. Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. Small stones may pass through the urinary tract naturally, while larger stones can become lodged in the kidney or ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder).
When a stone blocks urine flow, infected urine may become trapped behind the obstruction. This can lead to a serious infection involving the kidney. In some cases, a urinary infection may also contribute to the formation of certain types of kidney stones, such as struvite stones.
What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones and Urine Infection?
Symptoms can differ depending on whether someone has kidney stones, a urinary tract infection, or both conditions together. Some signs overlap, so symptoms alone cannot reliably confirm the cause.
1. Pain or Burning During Urination
A burning sensation or pain while passing urine is a common symptom of a urinary tract infection. It can also occur when a kidney stone moves through the urinary tract and irritates its lining. If painful urination continues, particularly alongside fever, back pain, or changes in urine appearance, seek medical evaluation.
2. Frequent Urination
You may feel the need to urinate repeatedly, even when only a small amount of urine passes each time. This symptom is common with UTIs. It may also occur when a stone moves towards the lower part of the urinary tract or gets close to the bladder.
3. Pain in the Back or Side
Kidney stone pain often begins in the back or side, below the ribs. It may spread towards the lower abdomen or groin. The pain can be sharp, severe, and intermittent, sometimes occurring in waves. A kidney infection can also cause pain in the back or side, particularly when accompanied by fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting.
4. Cloudy or Strong-Smelling Urine
Cloudy urine or urine with an unusual smell may occur with a urinary infection. However, these changes do not necessarily mean that an infection is present. If cloudy or strong-smelling urine occurs with burning, fever, frequent urination, or pain, your doctor may recommend a urine test.
5. Blood in the Urine
Kidney stones can irritate or damage the lining of the urinary tract, causing blood to appear in the urine. UTIs can also sometimes cause blood in the urine. Urine may appear pink, red, or brown. Blood in the urine should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional, even if there is no pain.
6. Fever and Chills
Fever and chills are particularly concerning when someone has symptoms of kidney stones. These symptoms may indicate a kidney infection or an infection associated with urinary obstruction. An infected, blocked urinary system can become life-threatening if treatment is delayed.
Do not wait for fever or chills to disappear on their own. Seek emergency medical attention, especially if you also have severe side or back pain or difficulty passing urine.
Kidney Stones vs. Urine Infection: How Are the Symptoms Different?
Kidney stones and UTIs can cause similar symptoms, but some patterns may help distinguish them.
These differences can provide useful clues, but they cannot confirm a diagnosis. A person may have kidney stones and a urinary infection at the same time. Medical assessment and appropriate tests are needed to identify the problem.
How Is a Kidney Stone-Related Urine Infection Diagnosed?
Your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination findings to determine whether you may have a kidney stone, urinary infection, or urinary obstruction.
Depending on your condition, the following tests may be recommended:
1. Urinalysis
A urine sample is examined for signs of infection, such as white blood cells, and for blood in the urine. Certain findings may suggest an infection, although additional testing may be needed.
2. Urine Culture
A urine culture helps identify the bacteria responsible for an infection. The results can also help the doctor select an appropriate antibiotic.
3. Blood Tests
Blood tests may be used to look for signs of infection and assess kidney function. They can be particularly important when a serious infection or obstruction is suspected.
4. Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or CT Scan
Imaging tests help identify the size and location of a kidney stone and determine whether it is blocking the flow of urine. An ultrasound or CT scan may be recommended depending on the symptoms, clinical findings, and urgency of the situation.
Not everyone needs every test. Your doctor will decide which investigations are appropriate for your condition.
How Is a Kidney Stone-Related Urinary Tract Infection Treated?
Treatment depends on several factors, including the size and location of the stone, whether urine flow is obstructed, the severity of the infection, and the patient's overall health.
What Happens If a Kidney Stone Blocks Urine Flow During an Infection?
An infected and obstructed kidney requires urgent medical attention. The doctor may need to drain the trapped urine using one of the following procedures:
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Ureteral stent: A thin tube is placed inside the ureter to allow urine to drain from the kidney into the bladder.
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Percutaneous nephrostomy: A drainage tube is inserted through the skin into the kidney to allow urine to flow out.
Antibiotics are also required to treat the infection. Once the infection is controlled and the patient is stable, the doctor can plan definitive treatment to remove the stone.
A small kidney stone without infection or obstruction may sometimes pass naturally with medical supervision. However, an infected blockage should never be managed by simply waiting for the stone to pass. Do not use leftover antibiotics or attempt to treat severe symptoms at home.
For more information, read about kidney stone treatment options at SCI International Hospital.
Can a Kidney Stone Cause a Kidney Infection?
A kidney stone can contribute to a kidney infection, particularly when it blocks the normal drainage of urine and bacteria are present.
A kidney infection, also called pyelonephritis, can cause symptoms such as:
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Fever and chills
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Pain in the back or side
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Nausea and vomiting
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Burning or discomfort during urination
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Feeling unusually weak or unwell
An infection that spreads beyond the urinary tract can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection. The risk is especially concerning when a kidney stone causes an obstruction. Prompt medical assessment and treatment are essential.
How Can You Reduce the Risk of Kidney Stones and Urine Infections?
Although not all kidney stones and UTIs can be prevented, certain steps may help reduce the risk.
1. Drink Enough Water
Adequate fluid intake helps prevent urine from becoming too concentrated, which can reduce the risk of some types of kidney stones. Follow your doctor's advice if you have a medical condition that requires you to limit fluids.
2. Do Not Ignore Urinary Symptoms
Persistent burning during urination, blood in the urine, repeated infections, or pain in the back or side should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
3. Take Prescribed Medication as Directed
If your doctor prescribes antibiotics for a bacterial infection, follow the prescribed instructions and complete the treatment as advised. Do not take antibiotics without medical guidance.
4. Follow Kidney Stone Prevention Advice
Your doctor may recommend dietary changes, medicines, or other preventive measures based on the type of kidney stone you have and your medical history.
5. Attend Follow-Up Appointments
If your kidney stone is being managed without surgery, follow-up appointments may be needed to check whether it has passed and whether urine is flowing normally.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:
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Persistent burning or pain during urination
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Blood in your urine
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Repeated urinary tract infections
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Persistent pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
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Frequent urination or difficulty passing urine
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience:
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Fever or chills along with suspected kidney stones
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Severe or increasing pain in the back or side
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Repeated vomiting or difficulty keeping fluids down
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Very little urine or an inability to pass urine
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Severe weakness or feeling extremely unwell
These symptoms may indicate a serious infection or urinary blockage. Do not delay emergency assessment.
Kidney Stone and Urinary Infection Treatment at SCI International Hospital
Kidney stones and urinary infections require appropriate diagnosis because both conditions can sometimes occur together. When an infection is associated with a urinary blockage, timely treatment is particularly important to protect kidney function and prevent serious complications.
At SCI International Hospital, the urology team provides evaluation and treatment for kidney stones and other urinary conditions. Treatment options are selected according to the patient's symptoms, stone size, location, and overall health. Patients can consult Dr. Sumit More, Urologist at SCI International Hospital, for assessment and management of kidney stones and urinary problems.
Learn more about Dr. Sumit More or explore the hospital's Urology and Andrology Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can kidney stones cause urine infections?
Yes. Kidney stones can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, particularly when they block the normal flow of urine. However, not everyone with kidney stones develops an infection.
2. How can I distinguish between a kidney stone and a urine infection?
Kidney stones commonly cause sharp pain in the back or side that may spread towards the groin. UTIs often cause burning during urination and frequent urges to urinate. However, symptoms can overlap, and both conditions can occur together. Urine tests and imaging may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
3. Can passing a kidney stone clear a urinary infection?
No, not necessarily. Passing the stone may relieve an obstruction, but it does not automatically eliminate bacteria causing an infection. Appropriate medical assessment and antibiotic treatment may still be necessary.
4. Is fever with kidney stone pain a serious condition?
Yes. Fever or chills with suspected kidney stones may indicate an infected kidney or an infected, obstructed urinary tract. This can become life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
5. Does every kidney stone with a urine infection require surgery?
No. Treatment depends on the stone, infection, and whether urine flow is blocked. Some cases may be managed with medication and monitoring. However, an infected obstruction usually requires urgent drainage, followed by treatment of the stone once the infection is controlled.
6. Can a kidney stone cause a kidney infection?
Yes. A kidney stone can contribute to a kidney infection, especially when it blocks urine drainage and bacteria are present. Fever, chills, back pain, nausea, and vomiting may be warning signs.
7. Which doctor should I consult for kidney stones and urine infections?
A urologist can evaluate kidney stones, urinary obstruction, and related urinary infections. Seek emergency care if you have fever or chills with suspected kidney stones, severe pain, or difficulty passing urine.
