Kidney Stones

What are Kidney Stones

Kidney stones, or renal calculi, are hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys and may travel through the urinary tract. Also referred to as nephrolithiasis or urolithiasis, kidney stones can cause sharp pain and other complications if not treated promptly.

What Causes Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones form when urine becomes too concentrated, allowing crystal-forming substances to stick together. These substances can include:

Calcium oxalate
Calcium phosphate
Uric acid

When there’s not enough fluid in the urine or when protective substances that prevent crystal formation are low, stones are more likely to develop.

Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Severe pain in the back or side, below the ribs
Radiating pain to the lower abdomen or groin
Waves of pain that vary in intensity
Burning sensation or discomfort while urinating

Other Possible Signs

Haematuria (pink, red, or brown urine)
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Increased urgency or frequency to urinate
Nausea and vomiting
Fever and chills (if an infection is present)

Who is at Risk of Kidney Stones?

Dehydration: Not drinking enough water increases stone risk.
High-sodium or high-protein diet: Excess sodium and animal protein can raise calcium and uric acid levels in urine.
Obesity: Associated with metabolic changes that increase stone risk.
Family or personal history: Previous stones increase recurrence risk.
Digestive issues: Conditions like IBD or past gastric bypass surgery may alter calcium absorption.
Certain medical conditions: Including renal tubular acidosis, hyperparathyroidism, cystinuria, and recurrent UTIs.
Medications and supplements: Overuse of calcium-based antacids, vitamin C, laxatives, or certain drugs (e.g. topiramate, allopurinol) can influence stone formation.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If symptoms such as severe flank pain, blood in the urine, nausea, or persistent urinary discomfort occur, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Early assessment can help identify the cause of the kidney stones and guide appropriate treatment.

Why Early Detection Matters

Kidney stones can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, kidney damage, or obstruction of urine flow. Early diagnosis allows for timely management, reducing pain and preventing further complications.

At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), individuals at risk of kidney stones are encouraged to undergo regular screenings and evaluations. Early detection can improve treatment options and long-term kidney health. SJMC’s team, including experienced urologists, provides comprehensive support, from initial diagnosis and lifestyle guidance to advanced treatments and ongoing care.

FAQs About Kidney Stones Causes and Symptoms

Yes, kidney stone pain often comes in waves as the stone moves through the urinary tract.

Not always. While blood in the urine (haematuria) is a common symptom, some people with kidney stones may not notice any visible blood, especially if the stones are small.

Not always. Small stones may pass through the urinary tract without causing noticeable symptoms, while larger stones are more likely to cause pain and urinary issues.

Signs of infection include fever, chills, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and severe pain. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical care immediately, as infections can become serious.

Yes, family history plays a role. If close relatives have had kidney stones, your risk increases due to genetic factors affecting urine composition and metabolism.

As a kidney stone travels from the kidney down the ureter towards the bladder, it can irritate nerves along the urinary tract. This often causes pain that radiates from the back or side to the lower abdomen and groin, and the intensity may change as the stone moves.