A kidney stone can cause some of the worst pain you’ll ever experience. When the pain is severe, it’s natural to wonder whether something more serious is happening and ask, “Can kidney stones kill you?”
The good news is that most kidney stones are not life-threatening. But a kidney stone can become dangerous if it blocks the flow of urine, causes an infection, or leads to a serious complication called sepsis.
Knowing the warning signs can help you tell when a kidney stone needs immediate medical attention.
When Can a Kidney Stone Become Dangerous?
Most kidney stones are treatable and don’t become life-threatening. Many small stones pass on their own, and larger stones can often be removed or broken apart with a procedure.
Problems can develop when a kidney stone blocks the flow of urine. Your kidneys make urine all day, and that urine needs to drain into the bladder. If a stone gets stuck, urine can back up into the kidney and create pressure. This can be very painful, but it becomes much more serious if an infection develops at the same time.
Why Is a Kidney Stone Infection an Emergency?
A blocked kidney infection is a medical emergency.
When bacteria become trapped behind a blockage, the infection can spread quickly. In some cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream and lead to sepsis, a severe reaction to infection.
As sepsis develops, blood pressure can drop and vital organs may not get enough oxygen. Without treatment, the kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain can begin to fail.
What Are the Warning Signs of Sepsis?
Sepsis symptoms can appear quickly and may include:
- Fever or a very low body temperature
- Chills or shaking
- Rapid heart rate
- Fast breathing or shortness of breath
- Severe weakness or fatigue
- Confusion
- Dizziness or fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea and vomiting
You may also notice very little urine output or kidney stone pain that suddenly becomes much worse. If you have a kidney stone and any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
Can Kidney Stones Cause Permanent Kidney Damage?
Yes, they can if a blockage lasts too long.
A kidney stone that prevents urine from draining normally can damage the kidney over time. Repeated kidney stones can also affect kidney function. This risk is especially important for people who already have kidney disease or only have one working kidney.
Do All Kidney Stones Need Treatment?
No. Many small kidney stones pass on their own with time, fluids, and pain management.
Larger stones may require treatment. Options can include medication to help the stone pass, shock wave therapy to break it apart, or a minimally invasive procedure to remove it.
The size of the stone matters, but it isn’t the only factor. A small stone that causes an infection can be more dangerous than a larger stone that isn’t blocking urine flow.
Who Is Most at Risk for Kidney Stone Complications?
Some people have a higher risk of serious complications from kidney stones, including those with:
- Diabetes
- A weakened immune system
- Chronic kidney disease
- A history of recurrent urinary tract infections
Older adults may also be more likely to develop severe illness from a kidney stone and infection.
When Should You See a Urologist?
You should contact a urologist if you think you may have a kidney stone, especially if symptoms aren’t improving.
Seek medical care right away if you have:
- Severe pain in your side or back
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Blood in your urine
- Trouble urinating
Early treatment can help prevent kidney damage and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Can Kidney Stones Kill You? What You Need to Know
Most kidney stones won’t become life-threatening, but they shouldn’t be ignored. A kidney stone can become dangerous if it blocks the flow of urine or leads to an infection. In rare cases, that infection can progress to sepsis, which is a medical emergency.
So, can kidney stones kill you? It’s uncommon, but serious complications can occur when treatment is delayed. That’s why it’s important to seek medical care if you’re experiencing severe pain, fever, vomiting, difficulty urinating, or other concerning symptoms.
If you’re dealing with kidney stone symptoms in Lake Barrington, Elgin, Crystal Lake, or Hoffman Estates, our team can help identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend the right treatment plan. Call today to schedule an appointment.