Kidney Stones
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Develop in 1 or both kidneys
- Affects over 1 in 10 people
- Can cause severe pain
- Untreated stones may lead to infection or kidney damage
Overview
Kidney stones are hard lumps that form when waste products in your blood create crystals that collect inside the kidneys. Over time, these crystals can build up into a stone-like mass. These stones are commonly found in the kidneys or the ureter, the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder. While small stones may pass unnoticed, larger ones can cause extreme pain and lead to complications like kidney infections or impaired kidney function if not treated. They are quite common, affecting more than 1 in 10 people, particularly those aged 30 to 60. Most small kidney stones can be passed naturally with medication to manage symptoms. Larger stones may require medical procedures to break them up or surgical removal. Preventing dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids is key to avoiding their formation.
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain in the side of your tummy
- Severe pain that comes and goes
- Feeling sick
- Vomiting
- High temperature
- Feeling hot, cold, or shivery
- Blood in your urine
Things That Increase the Risk
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Taking certain types of medication
- Having a medical condition that raises specific urine substance levels
- Being between 30 and 60 years old
Diagnosis
- Review of symptoms and medical history
- Physical examination
- Urine tests
- Blood tests
- Imaging scans like X-rays or CT scans
Treatment & Management
- Pain relief medication
- Drinking plenty of fluids to help pass stones
- Medication to relax the ureter and aid stone passage
- Procedures to break up stones (e.g., lithotripsy)
- Surgical removal for larger stones
Prevention
- Drink plenty of water every day
- Ensure your urine is pale in color
- Avoid dehydration
- Manage any underlying medical conditions
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Kidney Stones:
Surgical Options
Learn about surgical procedures available for Kidney Stones:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
People aged 30-60
Prevalence
More than 1 in 10
Diagnosis
Symptoms, imaging
Treatment
Pain relief, stone removal
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
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