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Kidney stones are small pieces of hard, crystallized material that form in the kidney. Another name for this common condition is renal lithiasis. Most kidney stones pass out of the body in the urine without serious problems. On occasion, a kidney stone can get stuck in the ureter — the tube connecting the kidney and bladder. This can result in potentially serious or even life-threatening complications, such as kidney infection and kidney damage.
Find a Doctor at Dignity Health for the treatment of kidney stones, especially for emergency care.
Small kidney stones or kidney stones that do not move and remain in the kidney may not produce any symptoms. A small kidney stone even may pass out of the body without causing pain or other symptoms. Severe, sharp, or stabbing pain in the middle area of the lower back is the main symptom of a large kidney stone that moves out of the kidney. The pain may spread to the abdomen or groin, and symptoms do not differ between men and women. Other signs and symptoms include:
The pain associated with kidney stones often comes on quickly and then returns in waves as the body tries to get rid of them.
Kidney stones are caused by higher than normal levels of calcium, oxalate, and phosphorus in the urine. These minerals are normal and not at all problematic at low levels. One or more kidney stones can form in one or both kidneys. They begin as tiny specks and may gradually increase in size. These higher levels of minerals can be caused by:
High levels of calcium in the urine can be attributed to eating a diet that is high in salt. Additionally, foods that are rich in oxalate or animal protein can raise acid levels in the body and urine, which makes it easier for kidney stones to form.
There are four main kinds of kidney stones:
There are certain risk factors for kidney stones. Male anatomy makes kidney stones more likely.
If someone in your family has had a kidney stone, you are also more likely to develop one. You are additionally more at risk if you have had kidney stones before.
Certain conditions and habits can put you at risk for kidney stones, including:
Certain medications can also put you at risk for developing kidney stones, including:
Once you figure out the cause of your kidney stones, it will be easier to prevent them. In general, diet and medication can limit stones from forming, but there is no one approach that is best for everyone.
Dietary changes that can help include:
The information contained in this article is meant for educational purposes only and should not replace advice from your healthcare provider.