Kidney Stones: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to kidney stones, covering warning signs, diagnosis and treatment options from medication to minimally invasive surgery.
Treatment usually begins with
Specialist Assessment
Imaging & Urine Tests
Medical Management
Minimally Invasive Surgery
Small stones often pass with medication and fluids, while larger stones are treated with minimally invasive procedures.
You may need this evaluated if...
A kidney stone evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- Severe pain in the back or side that comes in waves
- Blood in the urine
- Nausea or vomiting with pain
- Burning sensation while urinating
Kidney stones are very common and highly treatable, with most patients returning to normal activity quickly after treatment.
What is Kidney Stones (Renal Calculi)?
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys, and can cause severe pain as they move through the urinary tract.
Very Common
One of the most frequent urological conditions, affecting people of all ages.
Sizes Vary Widely
Stones range from tiny grains to large stones that fill the kidney.
Often Recurrent
People who have had one stone are at higher risk of forming another.
Highly Treatable
Most stones are managed with medication or minimally invasive procedures.
Common Symptoms
- Severe, wave-like pain in the back or side
- Blood in the urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent or painful urination
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, lifestyle and age-related factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
Urine Tests
Check for blood, infection and crystal-forming substances.
Ultrasound
A quick, radiation-free scan detects most stones and blockage.
CT Scan
Provides a detailed view of stone size, number and exact location.
Blood Tests
Assess kidney function and mineral levels contributing to stone formation.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Care
- Increased fluid intake to help small stones pass
- Pain relief medication
- Medication to relax the ureter and ease stone passage
- Dietary changes to reduce recurrence risk
Surgical Care
Larger stones or ones that don't pass on their own are treated with ESWL, ureteroscopy (URSL), RIRS or PCNL, chosen based on stone size and location.
Treatment decisions are based on symptoms, test results, stone or condition size and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly is important for the best outcome.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing symptoms.
- Recurring flank pain needing evaluation
- History of stones and new urinary symptoms
Seek Urgent Care
Call for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Severe pain with fever or chills
- Inability to pass urine
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right urologist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right urologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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