Urinary Stone (Kidney stones) Disease: Symptoms and Causes

By Dr. Ashutosh Singh in Urology

Sep 12, 2020

Urinary Stone (Kidney Stone) Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis

Kidney stones are becoming increasingly common in India. Every year, nearly 2 million people are affected by urolithiasis, and the number continues to rise. What makes this condition more concerning is its tendency to recur — about 50% of patients may develop kidney stones again within 10 years.

Some regions in India fall under the well-known “stone belt”, where kidney stone cases are reported more frequently. These areas include Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and several northeastern states.

Kidney stones often cause severe, sharp pain, and many patients end up in emergency care because the discomfort can be unbearable. While a single stone episode rarely leads to kidney failure, repeated stone formation can damage kidney tissue over time, eventually affecting kidney function. Regular health checkups and early evaluation help prevent complications.

Kidney stones are also a leading cause of blood in urine (hematuria), abdominal pain, and pain that radiates to the flank or groin. Studies show that 1 in 11 people will experience a kidney stone at least once in their life, with men being affected twice as often as women.

Stones typically form when urine becomes concentrated or contains high amounts of certain substances like calcium, oxalate, uric acid, phosphate, cystine, or xanthine. Low levels of citrate (a natural stone-preventing substance) or abnormal urinary pH also increase the risk of stone formation.

Causes of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones develop when minerals and salts in the urine crystallize and stick together. Factors that increase the risk include:

• Low water intake, leading to concentrated urine
• Imbalanced urinary pH, making the environment suitable for crystal formation
• Obstruction in the urinary tract that affects urine flow
• Diet high in salt or oxalate
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Certain medications that alter mineral balance
• Genetic predisposition

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Symptoms may vary depending on the stone’s size and location. Common signs include:

• Severe pain in the abdomen, flank, or lower back
• Painful urination (dysuria)
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Fever or chills, if infection is present
• Nausea and vomiting, especially when pain is intense
• Signs of urinary tract infection

Diagnosis of Kidney Stones

To confirm kidney stones and determine their size, location, and severity, doctors may recommend:

• KUB X-ray (Kidney–Ureter–Bladder X-ray)
• Ultrasound (USG) abdomen — useful for screening
• CT scan (Non-contrast CT of the abdomen) — considered the most accurate test

Early and accurate diagnosis helps guide proper treatment and prevents complications.

Types of Kidney Stones

Identifying the type of stone is important for selecting the right treatment and preventing recurrence. The four main types include:

1. Calcium Stones

The most common type

Caused by conditions such as:

• Excess parathyroid hormone
• High calcium leakage into urine
• High oxalate consumption
• Low magnesium or citrate levels

2. Uric Acid Stones

Formed when urine is highly acidic (pH < 5)
Risk increases with:

• High intake of meat, fish, or legumes
• Conditions like gout

3. Struvite Stones

Associated with recurrent urinary tract infections
Caused by bacteria that break down urea into ammonia

4. Cystine Stones

A rare type
Usually occurs due to genetic disorders

Why Early Treatment Matters

Delaying evaluation can worsen pain, increase the risk of infection, and lead to long-term kidney damage. With modern diagnostic tools and advanced treatment options, kidney stones can be effectively managed through medications, lifestyle changes, and minimally invasive procedures when required.

FAQs on Kidney Stones

1. What causes kidney stones?

Kidney stones form when minerals in the urine crystallize due to low hydration, diet, infections, or genetic factors.

2. What are the first signs of kidney stones?

Sharp flank or abdominal pain, blood in urine, and painful urination are common early symptoms.

3. How can I prevent kidney stones?

Drink plenty of water, limit salt and oxalate-rich foods, reduce red meat intake, and maintain a balanced diet.

4. When should I see a doctor for kidney stone symptoms?

Seek medical help if pain is severe, you have fever, persistent vomiting, or blood in urine.

5. Do kidney stones always require surgery?

No. Many stones can be treated with medication. Surgery is needed only for stones that are large or stuck in the urinary tract.