kidney stones can be mistaken for menstrual cramps
According to Dr. Saurabh Khiste - a kidney specialist at Manipal Baner Hospital, Pune (India), many women are confused between kidney stones and menstrual cramps, causing diagnosis and treatment to be delayed, even causing serious kidney damage.
Dr. Khiste said that kidney stone pain often starts from the back or hips and spreads to the lower abdomen or groin, while menstrual cramps are mainly concentrated in the pelvic area.
However, hormonal changes, bloating, nausea or vomiting during menstruation can easily confuse these two conditions.
Nectal stone pain is often more severe, lasting and can be accompanied by bowel movements and blood rushes, explains Khiste. Meanwhile, menstrual cramps are often cyclical and self-reducing.
The doctor also noted that hydration, pelvic blockage or gynecological diseases such as ovarian cysts and endometriosis can also cause women to misunderstand that pain is due to menstruation.
Risks of kidney stones if not treated promptly
kidney stones form when minerals and salt crystallize in the kidneys. If the stones are large, they can cause urinary tract obstruction, causing severe pain and the risk of infection.
small stones can be self-excretion, but large stones can lead to stagnant kidneys, recurring infections or permanent kidney damage if left untreated, Dr Khiste emphasizes.
He recommends that women should see a doctor immediately if they experience burning senses when urinating, blood in their urine, continuous urinary union pain or prolonged back pain, as these are warning signs of kidney stones.
How to detect and treat kidney stones
According to Dr. Khiste, kidney stones can be easily detected by ultrasound or CT scan, helping to distinguish between gynecological causes.
Depending on the size and location of the stone, the doctor may prescribe drinking plenty of water, taking urethral muscle relaxants, or medical interventions.
Currently, modern techniques such as skin-to- skin kidney stone endoscopy (PCNL), renal reflux endoscopy (RIRS) or urethral endoscopy (URS) help remove stones effectively without open surgery, reduce complications and shorten recovery time.
How to prevent kidney stones in women
Doctor Khiste recommends:
- Drink enough water every day to prevent crystallization.
- Reduce salty foods, limit foods rich in oxalates (such as black tea, spinach).
- Monitor kidney function periodically, especially in people who have had urinary tract infections.
(The article is for reference only, not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor if you have health questions).
