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Kidney Stones

Learn more about kidney stones and how they are treated.

Overview

A kidney stone can develop when certain chemicals in your urine form crystals that stick together. 

The crystals may grow into a stone ranging from the size of a grain of sand to a golf ball. 

Most stones form in the kidneys. Very small stones can pass through the urinary system without causing problems. However, larger stones can cause severe pain when travelling from the kidney through the ureter into the bladder.

Your care

Learn more about the care provided in the Emergency Department at Mount Sinai Hospital.

This content is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. It does not replace the need for consultation with a health-care professional. Please speak with your health-care professional for questions about your health.

Symptoms

Symptoms of kidney stones

The following signs and symptoms may indicate that you have kidney stones:

  • Extreme pain in your back or your sides that persists
  • Blood in your urine
  • Fever and chills
  • Nausea and vomiting
Tests

Tests

If you have symptoms that suggest a kidney stone, a physician may order a computed tomography (CT) scan or X-ray.

These tests detect the presence of a kidney stone and check whether the stone is blocking the flow of urine. 

Kidney stones are common and in most cases they are not caused by an underlying disease. If more information is needed, a physician may recommend any of the following tests:

  • A blood test to check that the kidneys are working properly
  • Urine tests to check for infection and for certain crystals
  • An analysis of your kidney stone, if you pass the stone
Managing at home

Managing at home

The following strategies can help you manage your kidney stones at home:

  • Increase your fluid intake to help your kidney stone(s) to pass
  • Take your medication as directed

If you have been given urine filters, follow the directions provided to look for a small kidney stone. Keep the stone and take it to your doctor for analysis. This may help determine how you can avoid kidney stones in the future. You can wash and reuse the filters or buy more at most pharmacies.

Our team recommends that you schedule a follow-up visit with your family doctor or specialist within a week or two of your Emergency Department visit. Your physician may need to do further blood and urine tests to make sure your kidney stone has passed and to determine how to help you prevent kidney stones in the future.

When to return to the ED

When to return to the ED

Return to the Emergency Department if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Pain that does not improve with prescribed medication
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Fever or shaking chills
Additional resources

Additional resources

These evidence-based resources provide more information about kidney stones: