What Is a Kidney Stone?

A kidney stone is a hard buildup of minerals and salts that forms inside the kidneys. Some stones are small enough to pass through the urinary tract without treatment, while others can become stuck and cause significant pain. Kidney stones can affect anyone, but they are more common in adults and people who have had stones before.

Several factors can increase the chance of stone formation, including dehydration, high sodium intake, obesity, diabetes, gout, and family history. Certain medications and repeated urinary tract infections may also raise the risk. Staying hydrated and managing certain health conditions may help lower the risk of developing them.

Symptoms

Kidney stones often cause symptoms when they begin moving through the urinary tract. The pain can appear suddenly and may become severe.

Common symptoms include:

• Sharp pain in the back, side, lower belly, or groin
• Pain that comes and goes in waves
• Blood in the urine
• Burning during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Fever or chills if an infection is present

How Is It Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider will review your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical exam. Testing helps confirm the presence of a stone and determine its size and location.

Diagnosis may include:

• Urine tests to check for blood, infection, or crystals
• Blood tests to evaluate kidney function and mineral levels
• CT scans to locate stones and identify blockages
• Ultrasound imaging to examine the kidneys and urinary tract

These tests also help guide the best treatment approach.

How Is It Treated?

Treatment depends on the size of the stone, the severity of symptoms, and whether the stone is blocking urine flow.

Small stones may pass on their own with increased fluids and pain management. Your provider may also recommend medications to help relax the urinary tract or reduce the risk of future stones.

If a stone is too large to pass naturally, more advanced treatment may be needed, including:

• Shock wave therapy to break stones into smaller pieces
• Ureteroscopy to remove or break apart stones using a small scope
• Minimally invasive surgery for larger or more complex stones

Many people recover fully after treatment, though kidney stones can return. Drinking enough water and following dietary recommendations can help reduce future episodes.