Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard, crystalline deposits that form inside the kidneys when certain minerals and salts in the urine become highly concentrated and crystallize. The most common type is composed primarily of calcium oxalate, although stones can also be made from uric acid, struvite, or cystine. Kidney stones can vary considerably in size, from tiny crystals that pass unnoticed to larger stones that can obstruct the urinary tract. Factors such as inadequate fluid intake, dietary habits, certain medical conditions, genetics, and some medications can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.

When a kidney stone moves through the urinary tract, it may cause severe, sharp pain, commonly felt in the back or side and sometimes radiating toward the lower abdomen or groin. Other symptoms may include blood in the urine, painful or frequent urination, nausea, and vomiting. Small stones may pass naturally with adequate hydration and symptom management, while larger or obstructing stones may require medical treatment or procedures to remove or break them apart. Fever or chills accompanying urinary symptoms can indicate an infection and requires prompt medical evaluation.