This information supports, and does not replace, advice from your healthcare professional.
Overview
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys, often causing severe pain when passing through the urinary tract.
Symptoms
Severe flank or back pain Blood in urine (hematuria) Frequent urination or urgency Nausea and vomiting Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Causes
Dehydration or low fluid intake High salt, sugar, or protein diet Certain medical conditions affecting calcium, oxalate, or uric acid Family history of kidney stones
Diagnosis
Urine and blood tests Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, X-ray) Analysis of passed stones
Treatment
Drinking plenty of water to pass small stones Pain relief and medications to relax urinary tract muscles Medical procedures like lithotripsy or surgery for large stones Preventive measures for recurrent stones