What symptom might indicate the presence of kidney stones?

Pain in the side or back is a common symptom of kidney stones. This pain typically occurs in the flank region, which is the area on either side of the lower back between the rib cage and the hip. The pain is often described as severe and can come in waves as the stone moves through the urinary tract. This type of pain is known as renal colic and is one of the hallmark signs that may indicate the presence of kidney stones.

Other symptoms that may accompany the pain include nausea, vomiting, and changes in urine color. Recognizing this symptom is crucial for early detection and management of kidney stones, which can lead to complications if left untreated. Hence, the presence of pain in the side or back serves as an important indicator for healthcare professionals to investigate further for potential kidney stones.