Overview
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause excruciating waves of pain when they move into the urine passage — often radiating from the back around to the groin. Low water intake in a hot climate is a major contributor. Small stones usually pass on their own; bigger ones need procedures.
Symptoms
- Severe cramping pain in the back or side, coming in waves
- Pain radiating to the lower abdomen and groin
- Blood in the urine (pink, red or tea-coloured)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Burning urination or frequent urges
- Fever and chills if infection sets in
Causes & risk factors
- Low fluid intake and dehydration in hot weather
- Diets very high in salt or animal protein
- Family history of stones
- Recurrent urinary infections
- Gout and certain metabolic conditions
Treatment & self-care
Small stones often pass with generous fluids and prescribed pain relief, sometimes helped by a tablet that relaxes the passage; larger or stuck stones are broken up or removed with modern procedures rather than open surgery in most cases. Drinking enough water to keep urine pale — especially in hot seasons — and moderating salt prevent recurrence. A stone with fever is an emergency.
See a doctor urgently if
- Severe pain not controlled by ordinary pain relief
- Pain with fever or chills — emergency
- Blood in the urine
- Inability to pass urine, or vomiting everything
- Repeated stone episodes