Kidney Stones

What are Kidney Stones?

The kidneys play an essential role in filtering waste from the blood and eliminating it through urine. Sometimes, minerals and salts in the urine can concentrate and form crystals within the kidneys. Over time, these crystals can grow into small, hard deposits known as kidney stones.

Kidney stones can vary in size and composition, most commonly forming from calcium or uric acid. In many cases, they do not cause symptoms while remaining in the kidney. Symptoms typically develop when a stone begins to move through the urinary tract—such as the ureters, bladder, or urethra—often leading to pain and other urinary symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones?

Pain is the most common symptom of kidney stones. It often begins in the lower back or side and may radiate to the lower abdomen or groin as the stone moves through the urinary tract. Many individuals also experience burning or discomfort during urination.

Other signs and symptoms may include:

• A sudden or persistent urge to urinate
• Frequent urination
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Dark or cloudy urine
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever or chills, particularly if an infection is present

In some men, pain may also extend to the tip of the penis. Because kidney stones can lead to complications such as infection or urinary blockage, it is important to seek medical evaluation if these symptoms occur.

How are Kidney Stones Diagnosed?

Your physician will begin by reviewing your symptoms and medical history. If kidney stones are suspected, diagnostic testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and location of the stone. This may include urine and blood tests, as well as imaging studies such as CT scans or X-rays.

If a kidney stone is passed, it may be collected and sent for laboratory analysis. Identifying the type of stone—such as calcium or uric acid—can help guide both treatment and prevention strategies, as different types of stones respond to specific medications and dietary recommendations.

In addition to identifying the type of stone, your physician may recommend preventive strategies to reduce the risk of future stones. These can include increasing daily fluid intake, making specific dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, taking medications to help regulate mineral levels in the urine. Ongoing monitoring and follow-up care can play an important role in preventing recurrence and maintaining long-term kidney health.

How are Kidney Stones Treated?

The team at Urological Associates of Savannah develops personalized treatment plans for kidney stones based on the size, location, and severity of your condition.

For smaller kidney stones that are not causing significant symptoms, treatment may include increased fluid intake, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, and medications that help relax the ureters to allow the stone to pass more easily.

For larger stones or more severe symptoms, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) may be recommended. This noninvasive treatment uses sound waves to break stones into smaller fragments, making them easier to pass through the urinary tract.

In more complex cases, a minimally invasive procedure called percutaneous nephrolithotomy may be used to remove the stone or break it apart within the kidney.

If you suspect kidney stones or are experiencing severe pain, scheduling an evaluation is an important step toward receiving prompt and effective treatment. Early diagnosis can help prevent complications, reduce discomfort, and support faster recovery with the most appropriate care plan.