A kidney stone is a hard, crystalline substance formed in the kidney or urinary tract. These stones can vary in size, from tiny grains to larger stones that may cause severe discomfort and complications if not treated in time.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones develop when certain substances in urine become highly concentrated and form crystals. Over time, these crystals grow into stones.
Common causes include:
Not drinking adequate amounts of water
Accumulation of dissolved minerals in the kidney
Calcification in kidneys or urethra
Decreased urine output
Diet and hereditary factors
Certain medications or supplements
Excess salt intake
High intake of oxalate-rich foods like spinach, nuts, and chocolate
Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
What is the main cause of kidney stones in men?
While kidney stones can affect anyone, men are more prone due to higher levels of certain minerals like calcium and uric acid in urine, dietary habits, and lower fluid intake.
Types of Kidney Stones
Understanding the type of stone helps guide treatment:
Calcium stones – the most common type
Uric acid stones – often linked to high protein intake
Struvite stones – associated with infections
Cystine stones – rare and hereditary
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
Symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the stone.
Severe pain in the lower back, side, or abdomen
Pain that may radiate to the groin
Traces of blood when passing urine
Vomiting and nausea
Pus when passing urine
Decreased urine output
Burning sensation when urinating
Persistent urge to urinate
Fever and chills
Infection
Incontinence[1]
Where do you have pain when you have kidney stones?
Pain usually begins in the back or side below the ribs and can radiate to the lower abdomen and groin. It often comes in waves and can be extremely intense.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Men
While many symptoms are common across both genders, men may experience certain patterns of pain more prominently.
Common symptoms in men include:
Severe pain in the lower back or side (flank pain)
Pain radiating to the lower abdomen and groin
Sharp pain that may extend to the testicular region
Burning sensation while urinating
Frequent urge to urinate with little output
Blood in urine[2]
Nausea and vomiting
Fever and chills if infection is present
Difficulty passing urine or interrupted flow
Restlessness due to intense, wave-like pain
Urology Insights by Dr. Jeevagan: Understanding Infections and Kidney Stones
In this insightful interview, Dr. Jeevagan shares expert guidance on common urological concerns including bladder infections, blood in urine, and kidney stone disease. With over a decade of experience in advanced urology procedures, he explains key causes, warning signs, and preventive measures, helping readers better understand when to seek timely medical care.
Early treatment helps prevent complications and speeds up recovery.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Women
While many symptoms overlap with men, women may experience them differently and sometimes mistake them for urinary or gynaecological conditions.
Common symptoms in women include:
Sharp pain in the lower back, side, or abdomen
Pain that may radiate to the lower pelvis
Burning sensation while urinating
Frequent urge to urinate
Blood in urine
Nausea and vomiting
Fever and chills, especially if infection is present
Pain that may be mistaken for menstrual cramps
Discomfort during urination or a feeling of incomplete emptying
How do you get rid of kidney stones in women?
Treatment is similar to men and depends on the size and type of stone:
Drinking plenty of fluids
Medications for pain relief
Lithotripsy for larger stones
Surgical removal if required
Early consultation is important, as symptoms in women may sometimes be misinterpreted.
Diagnosis of Kidney Stones
Doctors may recommend:
Urine tests to detect infection or crystals
Blood tests to check kidney function
Ultrasound or CT scan to locate stones
X-rays in certain cases
Also Read: The Risk Factors In Developing Kidney Stones[4]
Treatment for Kidney Stones
Treatment depends on the size, type, and severity.
Conservative Management
In mild cases, when stones are small:
Increased fluid intake to flush out the stone
Pain management medications
Medications to relax the ureter
Lithotripsy
A shockwave is used to break the stone into smaller pieces that can pass naturally.
Non-invasive
Requires pain management and anti-inflammatory care
Surgical Options
For larger or stubborn stones:
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy – removal through a small incision in the back
Ureteroscopic stone removal – removal using a thin tube inserted through the urethra
To Fix appointment with a Urologist Click here.[5]
How Do You Get Rid of Kidney Stones in Men and Women?
The treatment approach is similar for both:
Drink plenty of fluids
Take prescribed medications
Follow dietary recommendations
Undergo procedures if necessary
Early diagnosis ensures quicker recovery[6] and reduces complications.
Preventing Kidney Stones
Prevention is key, especially for those prone to recurrence.
Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily[7]
Sip water throughout the day
Reduce oxalate-rich foods
Maintain a low sodium diet[8]
Limit excessive protein intake
Consult a doctor[9] before taking calcium supplements
Maintain a healthy weight
Stay physically active
Risks Associated with Kidney Stones
High chances of recurrence
Increased risk of kidney infections
Potential long-term kidney damage if untreated
Patient Speak
“Excellent service provided by the Kauvery Hospital. Everything was very smooth and well planned. All the nurses and the staff were extremely soft spoken and cooperative. Big thanks to Dr. Anu Ramesh[10], my primary consultant and surgeon for my kidney stone procedure. She explained everything very clearly and accurately and also all the other doctors who were present during my procedure. Huge thanks to all of them.”
Pratik Rawal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can kidney stones go away on their own?+
Yes, small stones often pass naturally with increased water intake and medication.
How long does it take to pass a kidney stone?+
It may take a few days to a few weeks depending on the size and location.
Is kidney stone pain constant?+
No, it usually comes in waves and varies in intensity.
What causes kidney stones?+
They are caused by concentrated minerals in urine due to dehydration, diet, and other factors.
Where is kidney stone pain located?+
Pain is typically felt in the back, side, or lower abdomen and may radiate to the groin.
Are kidney stones more common in men or women?+
They are more common in men, though cases in women are increasing.
When should I see a doctor?+
Seek medical attention[11] if you experience severe pain, blood in urine, fever, or difficulty passing urine.
Conclusion
Kidney stones can be extremely painful, but with timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and proper lifestyle changes, they can be managed and even prevented. Staying well hydrated and mindful of your diet goes a long way in protecting your kidney health.