Kidney stones (also called renal calculi, nephrolithiasis or urolithiasis) are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside our kidneys. Passing kidney stones can be quite painful, but they usually cause no permanent damage to the kidneys if they're recognized and managed well in time.

Symptoms

A kidney stone usually will not cause symptoms until it moves around within the kidney or passes into one of the ureters. The ureters are the tubes that connect the kidneys and bladder.

If a kidney stone becomes lodged in the ureters, it may block the flow of urine and cause the kidney to swell and the ureter to spasm, which can be very painful. You may experience:

Seek immediate medical attention to a urologist if you have any of the above symptoms.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your risk of developing kidney stones include:

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water increases risk. People in warm climates or those who sweat more may be more susceptible.
• Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle leads to crystal accumulation in kidney areas not flushed by movement or gravity.
• Dietary Habits: Diets high in protein, sodium, and sugar can raise risk. High sodium intake increases calcium filtering, increasing stone formation.
• Obesity: High BMI, large waist size, and weight gain are linked with increased risk of kidney stones.

Treatment

Small Stones with Minimal Symptoms

Most small kidney stones don't need invasive treatment. They may pass naturally with:

• Drinking water: 2–3 quarts (1.8 to 3.6 liters) daily helps dilute urine and prevent stones.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medication may ease discomfort.
• Medical therapy: Alpha blockers relax ureter muscles to help stones pass more quickly and with less pain.

Large Stones or Symptomatic Cases

Stones that are too large, cause bleeding, damage, or infections may need procedural removal:

1. Semirigid Ureteroscopy (URS) / Flexible Ureteroscopy (RIRS)

A thin, lighted tube with a camera is passed through the urethra and bladder to the ureter or kidney. Lasers break the stone into passable fragments. A DJ stent may be placed in the ureter to reduce swelling and aid healing.

2. PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy)

For very large kidney stones, this surgery involves a small incision in the back to insert telescopes and remove the stone using instruments.

These procedures are done under anesthesia and are painless. Patients can usually move the next day and return to daily activities shortly after. DJ stents are typically removed in 2 to 3 weeks depending on the procedure and surgeon’s preference.