Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that can form in the kidneys and cause severe pain as they move through the urinary tract. In addition to discomfort, kidney stones can sometimes increase the risk of infection or block the normal flow of urine.

The urology team at Augusta Urology Associates provides evaluation and treatment for kidney stones, using diagnostic testing to identify the size and location of the stones and recommending appropriate treatment options to relieve pain and restore urinary health.

Questions and Answers

What are Kidney Stones?

Your kidneys filter waste products from your blood and remove them from the body through urine. In some cases, minerals and salts in the urine can crystallize inside the kidneys and gradually form small, hard deposits known as kidney stones.

Kidney stones can vary in size and are commonly made of substances such as calcium or uric acid. Many people do not experience symptoms while the stones remain in the kidney. Symptoms often begin when a stone starts moving through the urinary tract, including the ureters, bladder, or urethra, which can cause pain and other urinary issues.

What are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones?

Pain is the most common symptom of kidney stones. The pain often begins in the lower back or side and can radiate toward the lower abdomen or groin as the stone moves through the urinary tract. Many people also experience burning or discomfort during urination.

Other signs and symptoms of kidney stones may include:

  • A strong or sudden urge to urinate

  • Frequent urination

  • Blood in the urine (hematuria)

  • Dark or cloudy urine

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Fever or chills, especially if an infection is present

In some men, kidney stones can also cause pain that extends to the tip of the penis. Because kidney stones can lead to complications such as infection or blockage of urine flow, it is important to seek medical evaluation if you experience these symptoms.

How are Kidney Stones Diagnosed?

Your doctor begins by reviewing your symptoms and medical history. If kidney stones are suspected, diagnostic testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stone’s size and location. These tests can include urine and blood tests, CT scans, or X-rays.

If you pass a kidney stone, it may be sent to a laboratory for analysis. Identifying the type of stone, such as calcium or uric acid, helps guide treatment and prevention strategies, since different types of kidney stones respond to different medications and dietary recommendations.

How are Kidney Stones Treated?

The team at Augusta Urology Associates provides personalized treatment plans for kidney stones based on the size, location, and severity of your symptoms.

For small stones that are not causing significant discomfort, treatment may involve increasing fluid intake, using pain relievers such as ibuprofen, and taking medications that help relax the muscles in your ureters to allow the stone to pass more easily.

If stones are larger or symptoms are more severe, your doctor may recommend extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), a treatment that uses sound waves to break kidney stones into smaller pieces so they can pass through the urinary tract more easily.

In more complex cases, a minimally invasive procedure called percutaneous nephrolithotomy may be recommended to remove the stone or break it apart inside the kidney. If you suspect kidney stones or are experiencing severe pain, schedule an appointment for evaluation and treatment.