kidney stone aftercare at home
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A kidney stone is a small, hard deposit that forms inside your kidneys. It can cause pain as it moves through your urinary tract and may pass on its own or need treatment.
Key facts
- Most kidney stones pass out of the body on their own within a few weeks.
- Drinking plenty of water helps flush out small stones.
- Pain from a stone can be severe but usually improves as the stone moves.
- After passing a stone, you may need to collect it for testing.
Yes, about 1 in 10 people will have a kidney stone at some point in their life.
Kidney stones are most common in adults aged 30 to 60 years, and they affect men more often than women.
Symptoms
- Fever and chills along with pain (signs of infection)
- Severe pain that does not go away or worsens
- Inability to pass urine at all
- Blood in urine with fever or shaking chills
- ⚠Pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medicine
- ⚠Nausea and vomiting that prevents you from drinking fluids
- ⚠Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness)
Common symptoms
- Severe pain on one side of your back or lower abdomen that comes and goes
- Pain that spreads to your groin or lower belly
- Burning or pain when you urinate
- Pink, red, or brown urine (blood in urine)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Frequent urge to urinate
Symptoms in children
- Colicky pain in the belly or side
- Urinary tract infections that keep coming back
- Blood in the urine
Symptoms in older adults
- Less typical pain that may be dull or vague
- Confusion or agitation
- Loss of appetite or fatigue
Causes
Main causes
- Not drinking enough water
- Diet high in salt or oxalate (found in spinach, nuts, chocolate)
- Certain medical conditions like gout or urinary tract infections
- Taking some medicines that can form stones
Risk factors
- Family history of kidney stones
- Being overweight or obese
- Having had a kidney stone before
- Conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- You have fever and chills along with pain
- You are unable to pass urine
- You have severe pain that does not get better with rest or over-the-counter pain relief
Book a routine appointment if:
- After you pass a stone, to have it analyzed
- If pain comes back or you have ongoing symptoms
- To discuss ways to prevent future stones
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and do tests to find out if you have a kidney stone and how large it is.
Tests that may be done
- Imaging scans, like a CT scan or ultrasound, to see the stone
- Urine tests to check for infection, blood, or stone-forming substances
- Blood tests to check kidney function and calcium levels
What to expect at your appointment
You may be asked to collect your urine to catch the stone when it passes. This helps identify what type of stone it is so you can get advice on prevention.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the size and location of the stone, and your symptoms. Small stones can often be managed at home, while larger ones may require medical help.
Self-care at home
- Drink 2 to 3 litres of water each day to help flush the stone out
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your pharmacist or doctor (avoid aspirin if you have kidney disease)
- Strain your urine through a fine mesh or coffee filter to catch the stone
- Stay active and walk around to encourage the stone to move
Medical treatments
For stones that do not pass on their own, doctors may use treatments such as medicines to relax the ureter (the tube from kidney to bladder) and help the stone pass. They may also use sound waves to break the stone into smaller pieces, a procedure called lithotripsy. In some cases, a thin tube is placed in the ureter to remove the stone.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery may be needed if the stone is very large, is blocking urine flow, or causing infection. The doctor will discuss the best option for you.
Living with this condition
After passing a stone, continue drinking plenty of water and watch for signs of a new stone. If you have pain that returns, contact your doctor.
Lifestyle tips
- Stay well hydrated – aim for clear or pale yellow urine
- Reduce salt in your diet – avoid processed foods and salty snacks
- Limit foods high in oxalate if you had a calcium oxalate stone (like spinach, beets, nuts, and chocolate)
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet with moderate calcium (from dairy or supplements) can actually lower stone risk. Avoid high-dose vitamin C supplements. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Having a kidney stone can be stressful and painful. It is normal to feel anxious about it happening again. Talk to your doctor if you are worried.
Prevention
Yes, you can reduce your risk by drinking enough water, eating a low-salt diet, and following dietary advice based on the type of stone you had. Your doctor may also recommend medicines to prevent stones from forming.
Complications
If left untreated
- Kidney infection (pyelonephritis) – can cause fever, chills, and damage to the kidney
- Blockage of urine flow – can lead to kidney swelling and loss of function
- Scarring of the urinary tract
Long-term outlook
Most people recover fully from a kidney stone, and with proper prevention, the chance of another stone can be greatly reduced. Your doctor can help you make a plan to stay stone-free.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 30, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.