Kidney Stones: Symptoms, Causes & Modern Treatment Options

Kidney stones are hard deposits that form inside the kidneys from minerals and salts in the urine. They're common — and while small stones may pass on their own, larger ones can cause intense pain and need medical treatment.

Common symptoms

• Severe pain in the side, back or lower abdomen that comes in waves
• Pain that spreads to the groin
• Pain or burning while urinating
• Blood in the urine (pink, red or brown)
• Nausea and vomiting
• A frequent urge to urinate, or cloudy, foul-smelling urine

What causes kidney stones?

Stones form when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallise. Common risk factors include:

• Not drinking enough water
• A diet high in salt or animal protein
• Obesity and certain medical conditions
• A family history of stones

How are kidney stones treated?

Treatment depends on the size and location of the stone:

• Small stones: often pass naturally with plenty of fluids and pain relief
• ESWL (shock wave lithotripsy): sound waves break stones into tiny pieces without surgery
• PCNL: a minimally invasive procedure to remove larger stones through a small incision in the back
• Cystoscopy / URS with DJ stenting: stones are reached and removed through the urinary tract

When to see a doctor

Seek prompt care if you have severe pain, blood in your urine, fever with chills, or difficulty passing urine. These may signal an infection or blockage that needs urgent treatment.

How we can help

Our Urology & Nephrology department offers modern, minimally invasive stone treatment including PCNL, ESWL and cystoscopy, with on-site diagnostics for a fast diagnosis.