When experiencing renal colic, what symptoms should the patient most likely report?

Severe flank pain is the hallmark symptom of renal colic, which is often caused by the obstruction of the urinary tract by a kidney stone. This pain is typically intense and can be described as sharp or cramping, often radiating from the back to the abdomen and groin. It is a direct result of increased pressure in the renal pelvis due to the obstruction and can significantly affect the patient’s level of discomfort. While other symptoms may be present with urinary tract issues, the characteristic severe flank pain is most indicative of renal colic.

Dysuria, or painful urination, and increased urinary frequency are more commonly associated with bladder or lower urinary tract issues rather than with renal colic specifically. Acute tubular necrosis refers to a renal failure condition and does not typically present with the sudden onset of flank pain associated with renal colic.