“Everything You Need to Know About Kidney Stones and How to Prevent Them”

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard lumps that form inside your kidneys. These stones develop when certain minerals and salts build up in your urine. Because they can block the flow of urine, kidney stones may cause pain and other problems. Anyone can get kidney stones, but some people are more at risk than others. According to the National Kidney Foundation, about 1 in 10 people will have a kidney stone at some point in their life.

Common Causes of Kidney Stones

There are several reasons why kidney stones may form. However, some causes are more common than others. Knowing these can help you lower your risk.

Not drinking enough water

Eating a diet high in salt, sugar, or protein

Being overweight or obese

Having a family history of kidney stones

Certain medical conditions, like diabetes or urinary tract infections

Some medicines, such as diuretics or calcium-based antacids

For example, people who live in hot climates may sweat more and lose water, which can lead to stones. In addition, eating too much salt can make your kidneys work harder.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Kidney stone symptoms can vary. Sometimes, small stones cause no problems. But larger stones can be very painful. If you notice any of these signs, you may have a kidney stone:

Severe pain in your back, side, or lower belly

Pain when you urinate

Pink, red, or brown urine (blood in urine)

Cloudy or bad-smelling urine

Feeling the need to urinate often

Nausea or vomiting

Fever and chills (if there is an infection)

However, not everyone will have all these symptoms. Sometimes, the pain comes and goes as the stone moves.

How Kidney Stones Are Diagnosed

Doctors use several tests for kidney stone diagnosis. First, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Then, they may order tests such as:

Urine tests to check for blood or minerals

Blood tests to look for high levels of certain chemicals

Imaging tests, like ultrasound or CT scan, to see the stones

Because early diagnosis helps prevent problems, it is important to see a doctor if you have symptoms.

Treatment Options for Kidney Stones

Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and type of stone. Many small stones pass on their own with time. However, larger stones may need medical help. Common treatments include:

Drinking lots of water to help flush out the stone

Pain relievers to manage discomfort

Medicines to relax the muscles in your urinary tract

Shock wave therapy to break up larger stones

Surgery, if the stone is too big to pass or causes infection

In many cases, your doctor will guide you on the best treatment for your situation. For example, some stones may need special medicines to dissolve them.

Prevention Tips for Kidney Stones

Learning how to prevent kidney stones is important. While not all stones can be avoided, you can lower your risk by making simple changes. Try these tips:

Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water each day

Limit salt, sugar, and animal protein in your diet

Eat more fruits and vegetables

Stay at a healthy weight

Follow your doctor’s advice if you have a history of stones

Additionally, some people may need to avoid foods high in oxalate, like spinach or nuts. Always ask your doctor before making big changes to your diet.

When to See a Doctor

Although some kidney stones pass on their own, you should see a doctor if you:

Have severe pain that does not go away

Notice blood in your urine

Have trouble urinating

Develop a fever or chills

Feel sick to your stomach or vomit often

Because kidney stones can lead to serious problems, early treatment is best. Do not wait if you feel very unwell.

Consult a healthcare specialist for personalized advice on kidney stones.