What is Renal Colic

Renal colic is pain that is caused by a kidney stone. The pain can be sharp and very bad. It may be felt in the back, belly, side (flank), or groin. It can cause nausea. Renal colic can come and go.

Follow these instructions at home:

Medicines

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
• Do not drive or use heavy machinery while taking prescription pain medicine.

Eating and drinking

• Drink enough fluid to keep your pee (urine) pale yellow. You may be told to drink at least 8–10 glasses of water each day. Follow instructions from your doctor.
• If told, change your diet. This may include eating:
  • Less salt (sodium). Eat less than 2 grams (2,000 mg) of salt per day.
  • Less meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.
  • More fruits and vegetables.
  • Try not to eat spinach, rhubarb, sweet potatoes, or nuts.
• Follow instructions from your doctor about what foods and drinks to avoid.

General instructions

• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your doctor. This is important.
• Collect pee samples as told by your doctor.
• Strain your pee every time you pee, as told by your doctor. Use the strainer that your doctor recommends.
• Do not throw out the kidney stone after passing it. Keep the stone so it can be tested by your doctor.

Contact a doctor if:

• You have a fever or chills.
• Your pee smells bad or looks cloudy.
• You have pain or burning when you pee.

Get help right away if:

• The pain in your side (flank) or your groin suddenly gets worse.
• You get confused.
• You pass out.

Summary

• Renal colic is pain that is caused by a kidney stone.
• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
• Drink enough fluid to keep your pee pale yellow. You may be told to drink at least 8–10 glasses of water each day. Follow instructions from your doctor.
• Strain your pee every time you pee, as told by your doctor. Use the strainer that your doctor recommends.
• Do not throw out the kidney stone after passing it. Keep the stone so it can be tested by your doctor.