Kidney Stones
What are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are hard crystalline deposits that form in the kidneys when substances within the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, phosphate or uric acid, become concentrated and solidify. Stones can vary in size from tiny grains to larger, more complex formations. Some stones may pass easily and without symptoms, while others can move into the ureter and cause significant pain. Larger stones may obstruct the flow of urine and lead to swelling, infection or other complications.
Kidney stones are common and affect both men and women, although they occur more frequently in men between the ages of 30 and 50.
What causes kidney stones?
Kidney stones form when minerals and salts in the urine become highly concentrated and crystallise. Dehydration is a major contributing factor because concentrated urine increases the likelihood of crystal formation. Dietary factors can also play a role, including high intake of calcium, salt, protein or oxalate rich foods such as spinach, nuts and chocolate.
Obesity increases the level of stone forming substances in urine, and several medical conditions also increase risk. These include gout, hyperparathyroidism, chronic diarrhoea, inflammatory bowel disease and metabolic conditions such as renal tubular acidosis or cystinuria. A family history of kidney stones can raise the likelihood of developing them. Certain medications, including diuretics, calcium-based antacids and some chemotherapy drugs, may also contribute.
Who is affected?
Kidney stones can occur in anyone, although they are more common in adults and particularly in men. Individuals with dehydration, dietary risk factors, obesity or underlying metabolic or gastrointestinal conditions may be more susceptible. A family history of kidney stones further increases risk.
Common symptoms
Not all stones cause symptoms. When a stone moves from the kidney into the ureter, symptoms may begin suddenly. People often experience severe back or flank pain that may radiate to the groin or abdomen. Blood in the urine may occur, giving the urine a pink, red or brown appearance. Painful urination, urinary frequency, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, nausea and vomiting are also common.
Fever or chills may indicate an associated infection, which requires urgent medical attention.
What are the possible complications of a UTI?What are the possible complications of kidney stones?
If kidney stones are not treated, they can lead to several complications.
How are kidney stones diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually begins with urine testing. A urinalysis can detect blood, crystals or infection, while a 24-hour urine test may be used to measure levels of minerals such as calcium or oxalate.
Imaging studies are essential for confirming the presence and type of stone. A plain x-ray may detect some stones, although smaller stones or uric acid stones may not be visible. Ultrasound is a non-invasive option and is commonly used in situations where radiation should be avoided. A CT scan is the most accurate method and can show the size, number and location of stones.
Blood tests may be performed to check kidney function and identify underlying conditions such as elevated calcium or uric acid levels.
Preventing kidney stones
Staying well hydrated is the most effective way to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation. Maintaining a healthy diet that is low in salt and moderated in animal protein can help prevent crystals from forming. People with a history of stones may benefit from dietary adjustments tailored to the type of stone they form, as well as medications that help reduce mineral concentrations in the urine.
How do you treat kidney stones?
Treatment depends on the size, location and symptoms caused by the stone. Small stones often pass naturally with conservative management, including pain relief, increased fluid intake and medications that relax the ureter muscles, such as tamsulosin.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, ESWL, uses sound waves to break stones into smaller fragments to help them pass more easily. Ureteroscopy involves inserting a thin camera through the urinary tract to locate and remove stones or break them into smaller pieces. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy, PCNL, is a minimally invasive surgical approach used for large or complex stones.
Surgery is rarely required but may be necessary for very large stones or when complications occur.
Preventing future stones is an important part of ongoing care. This may include drinking enough water to dilute urine, reducing salt, animal protein and high oxalate foods, and using medications such as thiazide diuretics or potassium citrate depending on the stone type.
When should you see a doctor?
You should seek medical review if you experience severe flank or abdominal pain, blood in your urine, painful urination or persistent urinary symptoms. Fever or chills together with urinary pain require urgent assessment, as these may indicate infection in the presence of a blocked kidney. Early evaluation helps prevent complications and guides appropriate treatment.
If you have concerns about kidney stones, ongoing symptoms or ways to reduce your risk of recurrence, our team is here to help. We can provide assessment, investigation and a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.
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