Test your understanding with the Anatomy and Physiology II Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to succeed. Prepare efficiently and boost your confidence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What does renal "colic" refer to?

  1. The pain associated with kidney stones

  2. A cough with urinary tract infections

  3. A condition related to kidney failure

  4. Difficulty in urination

The correct answer is: The pain associated with kidney stones

Renal "colic" specifically refers to the severe pain that occurs when a kidney stone obstructs the urinary tract. This pain is often intense and can fluctuate in severity, typically felt in the lower back or side and may radiate to the abdomen and groin. It is caused by the contraction of the muscles in the ureter as they attempt to push the stone through, leading to spasms and significant discomfort. The experience of renal colic is characterized by its sudden onset and is a hallmark symptom that prompts individuals to seek medical attention, often due to its debilitating nature. The other choices describe different conditions related to the kidneys and urinary system, but they do not pertain to the specific definition of renal colic. Coughing associated with urinary tract infections, kidney failure, and difficulties in urination are all distinct medical issues and symptoms that do not encapsulate the hallmark experience of renal colic.