Kidney Stones: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard lumps that form inside your kidneys. They develop when minerals and salts in your urine stick together. Because kidney stones can block the flow of urine, they may cause pain and other problems. According to the CDC, kidney stones are a common health issue. Anyone can get them, but some people are more at risk.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Often, kidney stones do not cause symptoms until they move in your kidney or pass into your ureter. However, when symptoms appear, they can be very painful. For example, you may notice:

Severe pain in your back, side, or lower belly

Pain when you urinate

Pink, red, or brown urine

Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

Feeling the need to urinate often

Urinating in small amounts

Nausea or vomiting

Fever and chills (if infection is present)

Because these symptoms can also mean other health problems, it is important to see a doctor if you notice them.

Causes and Risk Factors

Kidney stones form when your urine has more crystal-forming substances than it can dilute. For instance, high levels of calcium, oxalate, or uric acid can lead to stones. But why do some people get them?

Not drinking enough water

Eating a diet high in salt, sugar, or protein

Being overweight or obese

Having a family history of kidney stones

Certain medical conditions, like diabetes or urinary tract infections

Some medicines, such as diuretics or calcium-based antacids

Because risk factors can add up, making small changes may help lower your risk.

How Kidney Stones Are Diagnosed

If your doctor thinks you have kidney stones, they will ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they may order tests to confirm the diagnosis. For example, you might have:

Urine tests to check for crystals or infection

Blood tests to look for high mineral levels

Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or CT scan, to see the stones

Because early diagnosis helps prevent problems, do not wait to seek care if you have symptoms.

Treatment Options for Kidney Stones

Treatment for kidney stones depends on their size, type, and location. Sometimes, small stones pass on their own. However, larger stones may need medical help. Common treatments include:

Drinking plenty of water to help flush out the stone

Pain relievers to manage discomfort

Medicines to relax your ureter and help the stone pass

Shock wave therapy (lithotripsy) to break up stones

Ureteroscopy, where a thin tube removes or breaks the stone

Surgery, in rare cases, for very large stones

Because each case is different, your doctor will suggest the best treatment for you. If you need kidney stone treatment in your area, ask your healthcare provider for local options.

Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Guidance

While not all kidney stones can be prevented, you can lower your risk with healthy habits. For example, try these tips:

Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily

Limit salt, sugar, and animal protein in your diet

Eat more fruits and vegetables

Stay at a healthy weight

Follow your doctor’s advice if you have a medical condition

Because prevention is easier than treatment, start making changes today. If you want to know how to prevent kidney stones, talk to your doctor or dietitian.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, kidney stones can cause serious problems. At Tirumala Hospital, see a doctor right away if you have:

Severe pain that will not go away

Blood in your urine

Fever and chills

Trouble passing urine

Nausea or vomiting that will not stop

Because quick treatment can prevent complications, do not delay seeking help.

Consult a urologist or healthcare provider at Tirumala Hospital for personalised advice on kidney stones.