Kidney stones: assessment and follow-up
Stone location, size and infection affect treatment. Learn what to do when pain develops, how treatment is chosen and how prevention is planned.
What symptoms can kidney stones cause?
Stones may form when certain substances in urine crystallise. A moving stone can cause waves of pain from the back or side towards the lower abdomen and groin. Blood in urine, burning, nausea and vomiting may accompany it. Other conditions can cause these symptoms, so do not diagnose a stone yourself.
Investigations and treatment choices
Urine and blood tests may assess infection and kidney function; imaging shows stone location and possible blockage. Some stones may pass with monitoring, while others need a procedure. Size alone does not determine the decision: pain, infection, obstruction and kidney health matter.
Stone fragmentation and procedures
Shock-wave treatment, removal through the urinary tract or a procedure through a small access into the kidney may be options for suitable patients. Pain control, anaesthesia, risks and follow-up differ. If a stent, a temporary tube helping urine drainage, is inserted, make sure you know the review and removal plan. Describing these methods does not confirm that all are available at Nev.
Planning to reduce recurrence
- Ask whether a passed stone should be analysed; stone type and urine investigations when needed guide prevention.
- Agree on a personal daily water target. A single litre target is not suitable for everyone with kidney or heart disease; seek assessment rather than forcing excessive water during pain.
- Salt, animal protein and certain foods are considered according to stone type. Do not eliminate all calcium-containing foods yourself; dietary calcium and supplements are assessed differently.
Symptoms needing urgent assessment
Seek emergency care promptly for flank or back pain with fever or chills, inability to urinate, uncontrolled pain or persistent vomiting. An infected, blocked urinary tract can make waiting dangerous. Call 112 for confusion, fainting or severe breathlessness. Tell the team immediately if you are pregnant or have one kidney.
Information sources
These sources support general information; they do not confirm our hospital’s services or clinical approval.
This information is general and does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your own situation with your healthcare team.
Back to the health guide