Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys or urinary tract. Many pass on their own, but some need treatment. This page explains what causes stones, common symptoms, how they’re diagnosed, treatment options, and how to prevent them.
Symptoms
- Sharp, cramping pain in the back or side (can move to lower abdomen or groin)
- Pain that comes in waves (colicky)
- Blood in urine (pink, red, or brown)
- Frequent urge to urinate; burning with urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Infection signs: fever, chills
- Pain is severe with fever or chills
- You can’t keep fluids down
- You have only one kidney
- Your urine flow stops
Types of Stones
- Calcium oxalate (most common)
- Calcium phosphate
- Uric acid (often linked to gout or high animal-protein diets)
- Struvite (from certain infections)
- Cystine (rare, genetic)
💡 Knowing the type guides prevention.
Treatment Options
- Home care (small stones): fluids, pain relievers, anti-nausea medication
- Medical expulsive therapy: medications like tamsulosin to relax the ureter
- Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): sound waves break stones into smaller pieces
- Ureteroscopy with laser: tiny scope fragments or removes stone; sometimes a stent is placed
- PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy): minimally invasive surgery for very large stones
- Antibiotics if there is a urinary infection
Common Causes & Risk Factors
- Low fluid intake (dehydration)
- Diet: high sodium, high oxalate foods (spinach, almonds), high animal protein, sugary sodas
- Medical conditions: gout, obesity, diabetes, recurrent UTIs, hyperparathyroidism, bowel disease/surgery
- Medications/supplements: excess vitamin C/D, certain diuretics, topiramate, calcium supplements (not taken with meals)
- Family or personal history of stones
💡 Most stones form when urine is too concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize.
How Kidney Stones Are Diagnosed
- History & physical exam
- Urinalysis (checks for blood, crystals, infection)
- Blood tests (kidney function, calcium, uric acid)
- Imaging: low-dose CT or ultrasound; sometimes X-ray
- Stone analysis if you pass/collect a stone
💡 Straining your urine at home can help capture a stone for analysis.
Prevention: Reduce the Risk of Future Stones
- Stay hydrated: Aim for enough fluids so your urine is pale yellow (usually about 8–10 cups of water a day, more if you sweat a lot or live in hot weather). Citrus drinks like lemon water can also help.
- Lower sodium: Try to keep salt under 2,000 mg/day; limit processed and packaged foods.
- Balanced calcium: Get the right amount from food (dairy or fortified foods). If you take supplements, take them with meals.
- Be smart with oxalates: If you form calcium oxalate stones, pair high-oxalate foods (like spinach, almonds) with calcium foods during meals.
- Protein in moderation: Don’t overdo meat; include plant proteins like beans and lentils.
- Cut back on sugary drinks & sodas: Water is best.
- Medication (if needed): Some people benefit from medicines like thiazide diuretics, potassium citrate, or allopurinol depending on their stone type.
💡 Tip: A personalized prevention plan, often guided by a 24-hour urine test, can lower the chance of stones coming back.
How long does it take to pass a kidney stone?
Small stones (≤5 mm) may pass within days to weeks. Larger stones are less likely to pass on their own and may need a procedure.
When should I seek urgent care?
Go to the ER for severe pain with fever/chills, vomiting/dehydration, inability to urinate, or if you have a single kidney or are pregnant.
Can kidney stones come back?
Yes. About half of people may have another stone within 5–10 years without prevention. Hydration and a tailored plan lower that risk.
Who treats kidney stones?
Urologists usually handle acute stones and procedures. Nephrologists focus on prevention and metabolic evaluation. Many patients see both.
Disclaimer: This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your clinician’s guidance.