{"id":12,"date":"2017-04-04T04:53:00","date_gmt":"2017-04-04T04:53:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/kidney-stones-causes-symptoms-and-treatment\/"},"modified":"2026-04-01T12:19:13","modified_gmt":"2026-04-01T12:19:13","slug":"kidney-stones-causes-symptoms-and-treatment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/urology\/kidney-stones-causes-symptoms-and-treatment\/","title":{"rendered":"Kidney Stone Causes, Symptoms and Treatments"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"caps\">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.<\/p>\n<h2>What Causes Kidney Stones?<\/h2>\n<p>Kidney stones develop when certain substances in urine become highly concentrated and form crystals. Over time, these crystals grow into stones.<\/p>\n<p>Common causes include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>Not drinking adequate amounts of water<\/li>\n<li>Accumulation of dissolved minerals in the kidney<\/li>\n<li>Calcification in kidneys or urethra<\/li>\n<li>Decreased urine output<\/li>\n<li>Diet and hereditary factors<\/li>\n<li>Certain medications or supplements<\/li>\n<li>Excess salt intake<\/li>\n<li>High intake of oxalate-rich foods like spinach, nuts, and chocolate<\/li>\n<li>Obesity and sedentary lifestyle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>What is the main cause of kidney stones in men?<\/h2>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n<h2>Types of Kidney Stones<\/h2>\n<p>Understanding the type of stone helps guide treatment:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li><strong>Calcium stones<\/strong> \u2013 the most common type<\/li>\n<li><strong>Uric acid stones<\/strong> \u2013 often linked to high protein intake<\/li>\n<li><strong>Struvite stones<\/strong> \u2013 associated with infections<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cystine stones<\/strong> \u2013 rare and hereditary<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Symptoms of Kidney Stones<\/h2>\n<p>Symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the stone.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>Severe pain in the lower back, side, or abdomen<\/li>\n<li>Pain that may radiate to the groin<\/li>\n<li>Traces of blood when passing urine<\/li>\n<li>Vomiting and nausea<\/li>\n<li>Pus when passing urine<\/li>\n<li>Decreased urine output<\/li>\n<li>Burning sensation when urinating<\/li>\n<li>Persistent urge to urinate<\/li>\n<li>Fever and chills<\/li>\n<li>Infection<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/urology\/urinary-incontinence-in-the-elderly\/\">Incontinence<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Where do you have pain when you have kidney stones?<\/h3>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" style=\"aspect-ratio: 16\/9; height: auto; margin-bottom: 20px;\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/LRmKs9_FqsY?si=Y2odhDFt_dpZsXlF\" width=\"100%\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2>Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Men<\/h2>\n<p>While many symptoms are common across both genders, men may experience certain patterns of pain more prominently.<\/p>\n<p>Common symptoms in men include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>Severe pain in the lower back or side (flank pain)<\/li>\n<li>Pain radiating to the lower abdomen and groin<\/li>\n<li>Sharp pain that may extend to the testicular region<\/li>\n<li>Burning sensation while urinating<\/li>\n<li>Frequent urge to urinate with little output<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/urology\/blood-in-urine-know-the-causes-and-treatment\/\">Blood in urine<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Nausea and vomiting<\/li>\n<li>Fever and chills if infection is present<\/li>\n<li>Difficulty passing urine or interrupted flow<\/li>\n<li>Restlessness due to intense, wave-like pain<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"box-2\">\n<h3>Urology Insights by Dr. Jeevagan: Understanding Infections and Kidney Stones<\/h3>\n<p>In this insightful interview, <strong>Dr. Jeevagan<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/news-events\/april-jeevagan\/\">https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/news-events\/april-jeevagan\/<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>How do you get rid of kidney stones in men?<\/h3>\n<p>Treatment depends on the size and severity:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>Increased fluid intake<\/li>\n<li>Pain relief medications<\/li>\n<li>Medications to relax the urinary tract<\/li>\n<li>Lithotripsy for larger stones<\/li>\n<li>Surgical procedures for complex cases<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Early treatment helps prevent complications and speeds up recovery.<\/p>\n<h2>Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Women<\/h2>\n<p>While many symptoms overlap with men, women may experience them differently and sometimes mistake them for urinary or gynaecological conditions.<\/p>\n<p>Common symptoms in women include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>Sharp pain in the lower back, side, or abdomen<\/li>\n<li>Pain that may radiate to the lower pelvis<\/li>\n<li>Burning sensation while urinating<\/li>\n<li>Frequent urge to urinate<\/li>\n<li>Blood in urine<\/li>\n<li>Nausea and vomiting<\/li>\n<li>Fever and chills, especially if infection is present<\/li>\n<li>Pain that may be mistaken for menstrual cramps<\/li>\n<li>Discomfort during urination or a feeling of incomplete emptying<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>How do you get rid of kidney stones in women?<\/h3>\n<p>Treatment is similar to men and depends on the size and type of stone:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>Drinking plenty of fluids<\/li>\n<li>Medications for pain relief<\/li>\n<li>Lithotripsy for larger stones<\/li>\n<li>Surgical removal if required<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Early consultation is important, as symptoms in women may sometimes be misinterpreted.<\/p>\n<h2>Diagnosis of Kidney Stones<\/h2>\n<p>Doctors may recommend:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>Urine tests to detect infection or crystals<\/li>\n<li>Blood tests to check kidney function<\/li>\n<li>Ultrasound or CT scan to locate stones<\/li>\n<li>X-rays in certain cases<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"also-read\"><strong>Also Read: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/urology\/the-risk-factors-in-developing-kidney-stones\/\">The Risk Factors In Developing Kidney Stones<\/a><\/div>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Treatment for Kidney Stones<\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Treatment depends on the size, type, and severity.<\/p>\n<div class=\"box-number col-3\">\n<div>\n<h3>Conservative Management<\/h3>\n<p>In mild cases, when stones are small:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Increased fluid intake to flush out the stone<\/li>\n<li>Pain management medications<\/li>\n<li>Medications to relax the ureter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h3>Lithotripsy<\/h3>\n<p>A shockwave is used to break the stone into smaller pieces that can pass naturally.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Non-invasive<\/li>\n<li>Requires pain management and anti-inflammatory care<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h3>Surgical Options<\/h3>\n<p>For larger or stubborn stones:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Percutaneous nephrolithotomy<\/strong> \u2013 removal through a small incision in the back<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ureteroscopic stone removal<\/strong> \u2013 removal using a thin tube inserted through the urethra<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"box-3\">\n<h3>To Fix appointment with a Urologist <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/centers-of-excellence-and-specialties\/nephrology-and-urology-doctors\/chennai\/\"><strong style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Click here.<\/strong><\/a><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<h2>How Do You Get Rid of Kidney Stones in Men and Women?<\/h2>\n<p>The treatment approach is similar for both:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>Drink plenty of fluids<\/li>\n<li>Take prescribed medications<\/li>\n<li>Follow dietary recommendations<\/li>\n<li>Undergo procedures if necessary<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/health-package-chennai\/\">Early diagnosis ensures quicker recovery<\/a> and reduces complications.<\/p>\n<h2>Preventing Kidney Stones<\/h2>\n<p>Prevention is key, especially for those prone to recurrence.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=5YCVBwK0P-0\">Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Sip water throughout the day<\/li>\n<li>Reduce oxalate-rich foods<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=-S8vhf_WJKM\">Maintain a low sodium diet<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Limit excessive protein intake<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/centers-of-excellence-and-specialties\/nephrology-and-urology-science\/\">Consult a doctor<\/a> before taking calcium supplements<\/li>\n<li>Maintain a healthy weight<\/li>\n<li>Stay physically active<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Risks Associated with Kidney Stones<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"list-icon check\">\n<li>High chances of recurrence<\/li>\n<li>Increased risk of kidney infections<\/li>\n<li>Potential long-term kidney damage if untreated<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"box-2\">\n<h3>Patient Speak<\/h3>\n<p>\u201cExcellent 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 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/doctors\/chennai\/urology\/dr-anu-ramesh\/\">Dr. Anu Ramesh<\/a>, 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.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pratik Rawal<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/h2>\n<div class=\"accordion_container\">\n<div class=\"accordion_head\">Can kidney stones go away on their own?<span class=\"plusminus\">+<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_body\">\n<p>Yes, small stones often pass naturally with increased water intake and medication.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_head\">How long does it take to pass a kidney stone?<span class=\"plusminus\">+<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_body\">\n<p>It may take a few days to a few weeks depending on the size and location.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_head\">Is kidney stone pain constant?<span class=\"plusminus\">+<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_body\">\n<p>No, it usually comes in waves and varies in intensity.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_head\">What causes kidney stones?<span class=\"plusminus\">+<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_body\">\n<p>They are caused by concentrated minerals in urine due to dehydration, diet, and other factors.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_head\">Where is kidney stone pain located?<span class=\"plusminus\">+<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_body\">\n<p>Pain is typically felt in the back, side, or lower abdomen and may radiate to the groin.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_head\">Are kidney stones more common in men or women?<span class=\"plusminus\">+<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_body\">\n<p>They are more common in men, though cases in women are increasing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_head\">When should I see a doctor?<span class=\"plusminus\">+<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"accordion_body\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/centers-of-excellence-and-specialties\/nephrology-and-urology-science\/\">Seek medical attention<\/a> if you experience severe pain, blood in urine, fever, or difficulty passing urine.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p>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.<\/p>\n<p class=\"latest-update\">Article Updated on 30<sup>th<\/sup> Mar 2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>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<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":13395,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[62],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-urology"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12"}],"version-history":[{"count":23,"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13412,"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12\/revisions\/13412"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13395"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kauveryhospital.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}