16514 Ureteral Stones

Overview

Ureteral stones are small, hard mineral deposits that form in the kidney and then move down into the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. They can cause pain and trouble with urination.

Yes, kidney stones affect about 1 in 10 people at some point in life, and many of these stones are found in the ureter.

Adults are most affected, especially men and people over 40. You are more likely to get them if you do not drink enough water, have a family history, or have certain medical conditions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden or severe pain in the side or back, sometimes spreading to the lower belly or groin
• Pain when urinating
• Pink, red, or brown urine (blood in the urine)
• Needing to urinate more often or urgently than usual
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Nausea or vomiting

Symptoms in children

• Tummy pain that may be vague
• Trouble or crying when urinating
• Blood in the urine
• Irritability or fussiness
• Vomiting

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain that may be less typical or located in the belly
• Confusion or feeling unusually tired
• Fever or chills
• Urinary symptoms such as burning or frequent urination
• Generally feeling unwell

Causes

Main causes

• Urine that is too concentrated, causing minerals to form crystals
• Not drinking enough water
• High levels of calcium, oxalate, or uric acid in the urine
• Urinary tract infections
• Certain medical conditions that affect digestion or metabolism

Risk factors

• Dehydration or not drinking enough fluids
• A diet high in salt or animal protein
• Being overweight or obese
• A family history of kidney stones
• Digestive diseases or surgery that affect water and nutrient absorption
• Some medicines can increase stone risk (talk to your doctor about yours)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden, severe pain in your side or back
• If you have fever, chills, or signs of infection
• If you cannot pass urine
• If you are vomiting and cannot keep fluids down

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have persistent dull pain or discomfort
• If you notice blood in your urine
• If you have had a stone before and want to prevent future ones

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and medical history, and will do a physical exam. If a stone is suspected, imaging tests can show the size and exact location of the stone.

Tests that may be done

• Imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan
• Urine test to check for blood, infection, or crystals
• Blood test to check kidney function and look for causes
• You may be asked to strain your urine to catch the stone for analysis

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor may suggest you drink plenty of fluids and take simple pain relief while waiting for the stone to pass. You might be referred to a specialist called a urologist if the stone is large or causing complications.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the size, location, and cause of the stone, as well as your symptoms. Small stones often pass with self-care, while larger stones may need medical or surgical help.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of water (about 6 to 8 glasses a day, unless your doctor says otherwise)
• Rest and use a warm heating pad on the painful area
• Strain your urine to catch the stone so it can be tested
• Take pain relief as suggested by your doctor or pharmacist (do not take more than recommended)

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe medicines that help the ureter relax so a stone can pass more easily, or medicines to control pain and nausea. Always take medicines exactly as prescribed and ask about any side effects.

When is surgery considered?

If the stone is too large to pass, blocks urine flow, or causes infection, a specialist may need to remove it. Common options include using sound waves to break up the stone, passing a thin telescope through the urinary tract, or keyhole surgery. Your doctor will explain what is best for you.

Living with this condition

While you are passing a stone, rest as needed and keep drinking fluids. Watch for signs like fever or worsening pain, and contact your doctor if anything changes. Attend any follow-up appointments so your kidneys stay healthy.

Lifestyle tips

• Drink enough water every day to keep your urine light yellow
• Limit salty foods and reduce processed meats
• Keep a healthy weight through regular physical activity
• Avoid holding your urine for long periods

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and enough calcium from foods is generally recommended. Exercising gently can help, but avoid heavy exertion if you are in pain. Your doctor or dietitian can give you specific advice based on the stone type.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Passing a stone can be painful and stressful, and it is normal to feel anxious or frustrated. Talk to your doctor about how you are feeling, and reach out to friends, family, or a counselor if you need extra support.

Prevention

Yes, for many people ureteral stones can be prevented by drinking enough water and making small changes to your diet. Your doctor can help find the cause and give you a personal plan.

Complications

If left untreated

• A stone can block the flow of urine, causing kidney swelling and intense pain
• It can lead to a kidney infection, which can be serious
• Over time, a blocked kidney can become permanently damaged

Long-term outlook

With prompt and proper care, most ureteral stones pass or are treated successfully. The outlook is very good, and most people recover fully. Taking steps to prevent new stones can help you stay healthy long term.

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