By Geradine Ohonba
Assistant Health Editor/Writer
Kidney stones may start as small, almost unnoticeable crystals, but left untreated, they can become serious medical threats. These hard deposits, formed inside the kidneys, often cause excruciating pain and other complications that can damage the urinary tract and even impair kidney function if ignored.
Understanding what kidney stones are, how they form, and why prompt treatment is critical can help you protect your health and avoid long-term complications.
What Are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are solid masses made of crystals that typically develop in the kidneys but can travel through the urinary tract. They form when minerals and salts—such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid—become concentrated enough in urine to create solid clumps. While they vary in size and composition, even small stones can cause significant pain as they move through the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder).
There are four main types of kidney stones:
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Calcium stones – the most common type, usually made of calcium oxalate.
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Uric acid stones – often formed in people who lose too much fluid or eat high-protein diets.
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Struvite stones – associated with urinary tract infections.
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Cystine stones – rare and usually caused by a hereditary condition.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
Many people do not realize they have a kidney stone until it begins to move. When it does, it can trigger sudden and severe symptoms, such as:
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Sharp pain in the back, side, abdomen, or groin
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Blood in the urine (hematuria)
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Frequent or painful urination
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Nausea and vomiting
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Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
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Fever and chills if an infection is present
The severity of symptoms often depends on the size and location of the stone. Smaller stones may pass on their own with little discomfort, but larger stones can become lodged and block the flow of urine—causing complications.
The Hidden Dangers of Ignoring Kidney Stones
Ignoring kidney stones is not only painful—it can be dangerous. Here are some of the serious health risks associated with untreated or recurrent kidney stones:
1. Urinary Tract Obstruction
Large stones can block the ureters, preventing urine from flowing from the kidney to the bladder. This backup increases pressure in the kidney, which can lead to kidney swelling (hydronephrosis) and irreversible kidney damage.
2. Infection Risk
Stones that block urine flow create an environment where bacteria can multiply. This can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) or more serious conditions like pyelonephritis (kidney infection) and urosepsis, a life-threatening infection that spreads through the bloodstream.
3. Chronic Kidney Disease
Repeated kidney stones or untreated obstructions can scar kidney tissue over time. This damage can reduce the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and eventually contribute to chronic kidney disease (CKD), which affects overall health and can require dialysis or transplantation in severe cases.
4. Persistent Pain and Quality of Life Decline
Beyond physical health, the chronic pain caused by recurring stones can severely impact a person’s quality of life. The anxiety of unpredictable episodes and the cost of repeated medical interventions can also take a mental and financial toll.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Kidney stones are typically diagnosed through imaging tests such as ultrasounds, CT scans, or X-rays. A urinalysis and blood tests may also be done to determine the type of stone and underlying causes.
Treatment depends on the size and type of the stone:
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Small stones may pass naturally with hydration and pain management.
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Larger stones may require medical intervention, including:
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Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) – uses sound waves to break stones into smaller pieces.
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Ureteroscopy – a thin scope is used to remove or break up the stone.
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Percutaneous nephrolithotomy – surgical removal for very large or complex stones.
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Prevention: Stopping Stones Before They Start
Preventing kidney stones often involves lifestyle and dietary changes:
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Drink plenty of water—at least 2–3 liters a day.
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Limit salt and animal protein intake.
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Eat foods rich in calcium but low in oxalate.
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Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods.
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Talk to a healthcare provider about medications that may reduce stone formation if you’re at high risk.
Kidney stones are more than just a painful inconvenience—they can lead to severe health complications if neglected. Early detection, proper treatment, and preventive measures are essential to avoid long-term damage. If you suspect you have a kidney stone or are experiencing unusual urinary symptoms, don’t wait—seek medical attention. Your kidneys are vital to your overall well-being, and protecting them starts with staying informed and proactive.
