Overview
Kidney stones are hard pieces that form from substances in urine. Small stones may pass on their own, sometimes with severe pain. This is general educational information, not medical advice.
Symptoms
- severe pain in the side or back
- pain that comes in waves
- blood in urine
- nausea
Causes
- not drinking enough fluids
- diet and certain minerals in urine
- some medical conditions and medicines
Risk factors
- low fluid intake
- previous kidney stones
- certain diets or conditions
Prevention
- drinking enough fluids as advised
- dietary changes recommended by a clinician
Emergency warning signs
- severe pain with fever and chills
- inability to pass urine
- persistent vomiting
Evaluation & tests
Educational note: clinicians use urine tests and imaging to assess stones. This library does not diagnose.
Treatment education
Educational overview: care depends on stone size and location and is individualized by clinicians. This library does not prescribe.
Self-care
General education: staying well hydrated may help reduce the risk of some stones when advised by a clinician.
When to seek care
Seek care for severe pain, blood in urine, or difficulty passing urine.