Kidney stones are hard lumps or crystals formed from minerals, acids, and salts in your kidneys. They can range in size from tiny, like a grain of sand, to as big as a golf ball, though large stones are rare. They are also known as renal calculi or nephrolithiasis.
You might not notice small kidney stones because they can pass through your urinary tract without causing any symptoms. However, larger stones can get stuck in the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. This blockage can cause urine to back up, reduce the kidney’s ability to filter waste and lead to bleeding.
It can take up to three weeks for kidney stones to pass naturally. Even small stones can cause severe pain as they move through your urinary tract. If a stone is too large to pass on its own, a healthcare provider may need to break it up or remove it.
Possible causes of kidney stones include:
The main symptom of kidney stones is pain in your lower back, belly, or side, which can feel dull or sharp and may spread from your groin to your side. This pain, sometimes called colicky pain, can come and go in waves.
Other symptoms of kidney stones include:
Smaller kidney stones may not cause any pain or symptoms.
Diagnosing a kidney stone involves a physical exam and reviewing your medical history with a doctor.
Usually, tests like:
According to the American Urological Association, a non-contrast CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is the most reliable method for detecting kidney stones. This scan helps identify the size and location of the stone, which are crucial in deciding the best treatment options.
For larger kidney stones or those causing complications like bleeding, kidney damage, or recurring infections, more extensive treatments may be necessary:
Kidney stones can sometimes remain in the body for many years without causing any problems. However, most stones either pass out of the body naturally or cause enough pain to require treatment before this happens. If kidney stones are left untreated, they can block the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder). This blockage can lead to a buildup of urine in the kidneys, which increases the risk of urinary tract infections, kidney damage, and, in severe cases, kidney failure.
To reduce the chances of these long-term complications, it’s important to have your kidney stones evaluated by a healthcare provider. They can recommend appropriate treatment, if needed, to prevent serious issues and promote your kidney health.
FAQ
No, small stones may pass without causing noticeable pain, while larger stones or stones causing blockages typically cause severe pain.
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