Understanding Kidney Stones

We’ve all heard of kidney stones and the pain that comes with them, but do we really know what they are? Here’s what you need to know about kidney stones, from the symptoms to be aware of to how you can prevent them from happening to you.

What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are small deposits that form anywhere along the urinary tract, but most often in the kidneys, which are located in the lower back. They can travel down the kidney tubes into the bladder and then pass through the urethra.

What are the symptoms?

Kidney stones are usually asymptomatic until they try to pass. That's when pain in the back, the most common symptom, occurs. This pain is typically located in the side of the back, right below the rib cage, and can move to the front, down to the lower abdomen and bladder. With kidney stones, the pain is often severe compared to common low back pain. Kidney stones become more concerning when they block the flow of urine or become infected, causing a high fever or a general feeling of discomfort or illness.

When should I seek care?

If you’ve never had kidney stones before and experience this kind of pain, and you don’t know the cause, you should contact your doctor or visit an emergency room or urgent care center. However, If you have had kidney stones before, you don’t necessarily need to contact your doctor unless you have a fever greater than 101 degrees or pain that makes you unable to keep any food or drink down.

How are kidney stones treated?

Treatment depends on the size of the kidney stones. Most stones are smaller than a sesame seed and tend to pass by themselves. Stones that are bigger may get stuck and can be resolved with noninvasive procedures, such as shockwaves, or may be treated by inserting a thin scope through the urethra and breaking up the stones using a laser.

Can kidney stones be prevented?

Yes, kidney stones can be prevented. While the biggest contributor is genetics, kidney stones form when urine is concentrated, so it’s important to keep urine diluted by increasing water intake. The best guide on how much water to drink is the color of your urine — urine should appear clear. When it comes to kidney stones, staying hydrated is the key to prevention.

Jeffrey Glaser, MD, FACS, is a Washington University urologist and has an office on the campus of Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Glaser by calling 636.928.WELL.

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