kidney stone specialist tests overview

Overview

Kidney stones are hard, pebble-like pieces that form in the kidneys. They can vary in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball, and they can cause pain when they move through the urinary tract.

Yes, kidney stones are fairly common. About 1 in 10 people will have a kidney stone at some point in their life.

Kidney stones can affect people of all ages, but they are most common in adults between 30 and 50 years old. Men are more likely to have kidney stones than women.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Severe pain in the side or back, often coming in waves
• Pain that spreads to the lower belly or groin
• Pain when urinating
• Pink, red, or brown urine (blood in the urine)
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Needing to urinate more often than usual
• Nausea and vomiting

Symptoms in children

• Children may not be able to describe the pain clearly. They might cry, hold their belly or back, or have a fever.
• Blood in the urine can also be a sign in children.
• If your child has pain in the side or belly, or if you notice blood in their urine, see a doctor.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have less typical symptoms, like confusion or feeling generally unwell.
• Pain might be milder or less specific in older adults.
• Fever or chills can also be a sign of a kidney stone infection.

Causes

Main causes

• Not drinking enough water, which makes urine more concentrated
• Eating a diet high in salt, sugar, or animal protein (such as red meat)
• Certain medical conditions, like obesity, diabetes, or gout
• Family history of kidney stones
• Some medications (talk to your doctor about any you take)

Risk factors

• Being overweight or obese
• Having had a kidney stone before (recurrence is common)
• Having a family member who had kidney stones
• Certain digestive diseases (like Crohn’s disease) that affect how your body absorbs nutrients
• Living in a hot, dry climate where you may become dehydrated

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You have severe pain that is not relieved by rest or over-the-counter pain relief
• You have pain along with fever and chills
• You cannot pass urine
• You see bright red blood or clots in your urine

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have mild pain that comes and goes, but you are not sure if it is a kidney stone
• You notice blood in your urine (even if painless)
• You have a history of kidney stones and want to check if a new one has formed

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, recent health, and lifestyle. They will also do a physical exam and may order lab tests and imaging scans to confirm a kidney stone and find out its size and location.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test: Checks for blood, infection, or crystals that can form stones.
• Blood test: Measures kidney function and looks for high levels of substances that can lead to stones, like calcium or uric acid.
• CT scan (computed tomography): A detailed X-ray that can show stones of all sizes and locations. This is often the most used test.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys and bladder. It is safe and does not use radiation.
• X-ray: A simple X-ray of the abdomen (KUB) can show some kidney stones, but not all types.
• Stone analysis (if you pass a stone): The stone is sent to a lab to find out what it is made of, which helps guide prevention.

What to expect at your appointment

During a CT scan, you will lie on a table that slides into a large machine. The scan is painless and takes only a few minutes. For an ultrasound, a gel is applied to your skin and a small probe is moved over your back and belly. Both tests are non-invasive. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.

Treatment

Treatment for kidney stones depends on the stone's size, location, and symptoms. Small stones often pass on their own with home care. Larger stones or those causing severe pain, infection, or blockage may need medical or surgical treatment.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of water (about 2 to 3 liters per day) to help flush the stone out.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist (ask which is safe for you).
• Use a heating pad on your back or side to ease mild pain.
• Try gentle activity, like walking, to help the stone move.

Medical treatments

If a stone does not pass on its own, doctors may offer treatments such as shock wave lithotripsy (using sound waves to break the stone into smaller pieces), ureteroscopy (a thin scope passed through the urethra to remove or break the stone), or sometimes medication to help relax the ureter muscles so the stone can pass more easily. The choice depends on the stone's size, location, and your general health.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be needed if the stone is very large, causes blockage or infection, or cannot be treated with other methods. Options include percutaneous nephrolithotomy (a small incision in the back) or rarely open surgery.

Living with this condition

If you have had a kidney stone, you may worry about another one. Staying hydrated and following a healthy diet can help reduce your risk. Most people recover fully and can return to normal activities after the stone passes or is treated.

Lifestyle tips

• Drink enough water so that your urine is pale yellow.
• Limit salt and processed foods.
• Eat less red meat and animal protein; include more fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid sugary drinks, especially sodas.
• Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight.

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fluids is key. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, which lowers your risk. But if you are in the middle of a stone episode, rest and drink water. After recovery, gradually return to your normal routine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Having a kidney stone can be painful and stressful. It is normal to feel anxious about the pain or about having another stone. Talk to your healthcare provider about any worries. They can offer advice and support.

Prevention

Yes, many kidney stones can be prevented. Drinking enough water every day is the most important step. Eating a low-salt, balanced diet and limiting animal protein can also help. If you have had a stone, your doctor may recommend specific dietary changes based on the stone type.

Screening programmes

People who have had a kidney stone before may benefit from periodic check-ups with urine tests and blood tests to monitor their risk. Your doctor will tell you if you need regular screening.

Complications

If left untreated

• A stone that blocks the flow of urine can cause kidney swelling (hydronephrosis), which may damage the kidney.
• Infection in the kidney (pyelonephritis) can occur if bacteria become trapped by a stone.
• Long-term blockage can lead to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.

Long-term outlook

Most kidney stones pass or are treated successfully with good outcomes. Once a stone is gone, the risk of another stone is higher, but with proper prevention measures, many people avoid recurrence. If you follow your doctor's advice and stay hydrated, you can reduce your chances of another stone.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.