Male Signs of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones form due to a crystallization of substances in the urine. This common condition occurs more often in men than women, especially during the fourth decade of life. Additional risk factors for developing the masses include dehydration, obesity, high-protein diets and a family history of kidney stones. Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size of the stone and its location. Small stones usually pass on their own when there is an increase in fluid intake, while large stones may require using a scope to remove the stone or surgery. Symptoms vary -- seek medical attention if you suspect you have a kidney stone.

A man is experiencing lower back pain. (Image: Monkey Business Images/Stockbroker/Monkey Business/Getty Images)

Absence of Signs

Many men do not feel any symptoms associated with kidney stones. Small stones may pass without notice while others may not cause symptoms until after the stone moves from the bladder into the ureter -- the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder.

Abdominal and Back Pain

Kidney stones can cause considerable pain in most men. The pain can start while the stone is still in the kidney or it may begin once the stone moves to the ureter, bladder or urethra. If the stone is in the kidney, pain typically occurs in the side and back on the same side of the body as the affected kidney. A man may also feel pain -- often described as a sharp pain or a cramping sensation -- in the lower abdomen, pelvic area or into the testicles. Some men feel the pain move as the stone passes through the urinary tract. This pain can come in waves and build in intensity before fading in cycles of every 20 minutes to an hour. Painful urination may also occur with a kidney stone.

Physical Signs

As the kidney stone begins to move through the urinary system, the man may feel an urge to urinate more frequently. The stone can cause damage or irritation to the lining of the ureter or the bladder. This irritation may cause blood to mix with the urine. Bloody urine can appear reddened, rusty or pink in color. The urine may also appear cloudy or have an odor.

Many men experience symptoms of gastric distress such as nausea and vomiting when suffering from a kidney stone. These symptoms occur most often due to the pain of the kidney stone.

Fever and chills can accompany other symptoms associated with a kidney stone. If a man experiences a fever, it indicates an infection in the body. An infection requires a medical examination and antibiotic therapy.