Kidney Stones
Hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys and can cause severe pain.
Overview
Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They have many causes and can affect any part of your urinary tract — from your kidneys to your bladder. Often, stones form when the urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. Passing kidney stones can be quite painful, but the stones usually cause no permanent damage if recognized in a timely fashion.
Common Age
30-60 years most common
Prevalence
Affects about 10% of people in their lifetime
Duration
Small stones: days to weeks; larger may require intervention
Common Symptoms
- Severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs
- Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin
- Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Pink, red, or brown urine
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Fever and chills (if infection present)
Possible Causes
- Not drinking enough water
- High-protein, high-sodium, or high-sugar diet
- Obesity
- Family or personal history
- Certain medical conditions
- Some supplements and medications
- Digestive diseases (Crohn's, chronic diarrhea)
Note: These are potential causes. A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause in your case.
Quick Self-Care Tips
- 1Drink plenty of water (2-3 liters daily)
- 2Take pain medication as needed
- 3Apply heat to the affected area
- 4Stay active (light walking may help)
- 5Strain your urine to catch the stone
- 6Reduce sodium intake
- 7Limit animal protein
- 8Avoid high-oxalate foods if prone to stones
Disclaimer: These are general wellness suggestions, not medical treatment recommendations. They may help manage symptoms but should not replace professional medical care.
Detailed Treatment & Solutions
1HYDRATION
Most important prevention. Drink enough to produce 2+ liters of urine daily. Urine should be light yellow or clear. Water is best; citrus juices may help.
2DIETARY CHANGES
Reduce sodium (under 2,300mg daily). Limit animal protein. If oxalate stones: reduce high-oxalate foods (spinach, rhubarb, nuts). Get calcium from food, not supplements.
3PASSING SMALL STONES
Many stones pass on their own. Drink 2-3 liters of water daily. Take OTC pain relievers. Alpha-blockers may help relax ureter muscles. May take days to weeks.
4MEDICAL TREATMENTS
Shock wave lithotripsy breaks up larger stones. Ureteroscopy removes stones directly. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy for very large stones. Treatment depends on stone size and location.
5MEDICATION FOR PREVENTION
Thiazide diuretics for calcium stones. Allopurinol for uric acid stones. Potassium citrate to increase urine citrate. Doctor prescribes based on stone type.
6STONE ANALYSIS
If you pass a stone, save it for analysis. Knowing the stone type helps prevent future stones. Different stone types require different prevention strategies.
Important: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen. The solutions above are for educational purposes and may not be suitable for everyone.
Risk Factors
- Dehydration
- Family history
- Obesity
- High-protein diet
- High-sodium diet
- Certain medical conditions
- Some medications
Prevention
- Drinking plenty of water
- Reducing sodium
- Limiting animal protein
- Getting calcium from food
- Maintaining healthy weight
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- Pain is so severe you can't sit still or find comfort
- Pain is accompanied by nausea and vomiting
- Pain is accompanied by fever and chills
- Blood in your urine
- Difficulty urinating
- EMERGENCY: Severe pain with fever or if you have only one kidney
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
If your symptoms are persistent, severe, or concerning, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat does kidney stone pain feel like?
Kidney stone pain is often described as the worst pain ever experienced. It typically starts suddenly in the back or side below the ribs, then radiates to the lower abdomen and groin as the stone moves. The pain comes in waves and can be excruciating.
QHow long does it take to pass a kidney stone?
Small stones (under 4mm) usually pass within 1-2 weeks. Larger stones may take longer or require medical intervention. Drinking plenty of water and staying active can help. Pain typically stops once the stone reaches the bladder.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Information last reviewed: January 2026
This page provides educational information only. It is not medical advice.