Overview
Kidney stones (nephrolithiasis) are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can affect any part of the urinary tract, from kidneys to bladder. Passing kidney stones can be extremely painful, but the stones usually cause no permanent damage if recognised promptly. Depending on the situation, treatment may range from simple pain management to procedures to remove stones.
Causes and risk factors
The following factors are associated with the development of Kidney Stones:
- Insufficient fluid intake and dehydration
- Diet high in protein, salt, or sugar
- Obesity
- Certain medical conditions: hyperparathyroidism, renal tubular acidosis
- Certain medications: calcium supplements, vitamin D excess, diuretics
- Family history
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Gout
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Previous kidney stones
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of Kidney Stones include:
- Severe pain in the side and back below ribs (renal colic)
- Pain radiating to lower abdomen and groin
- Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
- Pain or burning sensation when urinating
- Pink, red, or brown urine
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Persistent need to urinate
- Fever and chills if infection present
Diagnosis
Kidney Stones is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and appropriate investigations such as blood tests, imaging, or specialist review, depending on the specific condition and presentation. Your doctor will consider all relevant symptoms and risk factors before making a diagnosis.
Treatment options
Treatment approaches for Kidney Stones may include:
- Drinking large amounts of water to help pass small stones
- Pain relief: NSAIDs (diclofenac), opioids for severe pain
- Alpha-blockers (tamsulosin) to help stone passage
- Shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break up stones
- Ureteroscopy to remove or break up stones
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy for large stones
- Preventive medications based on stone type
- Dietary modifications to prevent recurrence
Prevention
Drink 2–3 litres of water daily, reduce salt and animal protein intake, limit oxalate-rich foods (spinach, nuts) if prone to calcium oxalate stones, maintain healthy weight.
Complications
If left untreated or poorly managed, Kidney Stones can lead to complications including:
Urinary obstruction, kidney damage, recurrent urinary tract infections, and chronic kidney disease.
Sources and references: This article is written in accordance with NHS UK, WHO, and Mayo Clinic clinical guidelines. It is reviewed for accuracy by the SymptomSense content team. ICD-10 code: N20. Last reviewed June 2026.