Kidney stones are solid, pebble-like pieces of material that can form in one or both kidneys when minerals and other substances in urine become too concentrated. These stones may remain in the kidneys or travel through the urinary tract, where they can potentially cause blockages that lead to discomfort.

The size and shape of kidney stones can vary. Some are as small as grains of sand, while others grow to resemble small pebbles or, in rare cases, even reach the size of a golf ball. Their texture can be smooth or jagged, and they typically appear yellow or brown.

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones?

Symptoms of kidney stones can vary based on the stone’s size and location. In some cases, small stones may pass through the urinary tract without causing any noticeable discomfort. However, when a stone moves or blocks the flow of urine, it can trigger symptoms that may range from mild to severe. Common symptoms of kidney stones include:

• Sharp, intense pain in the back, side, lower abdomen or groin
• Pink, red or brown-colored urine, which may indicate blood in the urine (hematuria)
• A constant urge to urinate
• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• Difficulty urinating or passing only a small amount of urine
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

In addition to these symptoms, kidney stones can also cause:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever and chills, which may suggest an infection
  

Kidney stone pain may come and go in waves as the stone moves through the urinary tract. If you experience severe pain, blood in your urine or any symptoms of infection, seek medical care promptly.

What Causes Kidney Stones?

Kidney stone formations result from an imbalance, where the urine contains more crystal-forming substances—like calcium, oxalate or uric acid—than the fluid in the urine can dilute. Here are some factors that can contribute to the development of kidney stones:

• Not drinking enough fluids: Insufficient fluid intake may concentrate the minerals in urine, increasing the chance of stone formation.
• Dietary habits: High consumption of sodium, animal protein and foods rich in oxalate (like spinach or nuts) may increase the risk of developing some types of stones. 

What Are the Types of Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are not all the same. They come in different types, each formed from specific substances found in urine. Identifying the type of stone helps your healthcare provider recommend specific dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of future stones. Here are the main types of kidney stones:

• Calcium oxalate stones: These calcium stones are the most common type. They form when calcium binds with oxalate, a substance found in certain foods like spinach and nuts.
• Calcium phosphate stones: These are less common and often associated with certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism.
• Uric acid stones: These develop when urine becomes too acidic.
• Struvite stones: These are linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacteria that produce the enzyme urease.
• Cystine stones: These are rare and occur due to a genetic condition called cystinuria, which causes the amino acid cystine to leak into the urine.
  

How Are Kidney Stones Treated?

Treatment for kidney stones depends on the stone’s size, location, type and whether it is causing symptoms or blocking the urinary tract. Many kidney stones pass naturally without intervention, but some require specialized care. Your healthcare provider will work with you to find an appropriate approach to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. 

Nonsurgical Treatments for Kidney Stones

• Increased fluid intake: Drinking plenty of water helps flush small stones through the urinary tract. Staying hydrated is one of the first steps your healthcare provider may recommend to help a stone pass naturally.
• Pain relief medication: Passing a kidney stone can be painful. Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may help manage discomfort during the process.
• Medication to help pass stones: For some stones, medications called alpha-blockers may be prescribed. These medications help relax the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for the stone to pass and reducing the need for surgery.
• Treatment for infections: If the stone has caused an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection before considering other treatments.
  

When Is Surgery Considered?

Surgical intervention is usually recommended if:

• The stone is too large to pass on its own
• The stone is blocking the urinary tract, causing severe pain or leading to infection
• There is a risk of kidney damage
• You are unable to keep fluids down due to nausea or vomiting, leading to dehydration
  

Options for surgical removal of kidney stones may include:

• Shockwave lithotripsy (SWL): This shockwave therapy for kidney stones uses high-energy sound waves to break the stone into smaller pieces, which can then pass through the urinary tract.
• Cystoscopy and ureteroscopy: In these procedures, a doctor uses a thin, flexible scope inserted through the urethra to reach and remove or break down stones in the bladder or ureters.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): PCNL may be used for larger or more complex stones. A small incision is made in the back and a nephroscope (a thin, viewing tool) is inserted directly into the kidney to remove the stone. Sometimes, a laser is used to break the stone into smaller pieces.
• Ureteral stents: After some procedures, a thin, flexible tube (ureteral stent) may be placed temporarily in the urinary tract to help urine flow and facilitate the passage of any remaining stone fragments.
  

After a stone is passed or removed, your healthcare provider may send the stone for analysis to determine its type. This information helps guide dietary or lifestyle changes and medical treatments to prevent future stones. You may also be asked to collect urine over 24 hours to monitor mineral levels and ensure you are producing enough urine to prevent further stone formation. 

Your Health Is in Good Hands

Whether through medication, surgery or both, your healthcare team will guide you in managing your condition and preventing complications. At Baptist Medical Network in San Antonio, TX, we’re dedicated to helping you understand your kidney stones treatment options, empowering you to make informed decisions for care tailored to your needs.