How to Treat or Cure Kidney Stones

Treatment depends on the size, position and type of the stone and on whether there is infection or blockage.

Small stones (usually under 5 mm)

• Fluids, pain relief and waiting, with a doctor's follow-up
• Medicines such as tamsulosin may be prescribed
• Return urgently if fever, vomiting or poor urine output develops

Stones that need active treatment

• Stones larger than about 6 to 10 mm that do not pass
• Stones causing infection, blockage, severe pain, a single kidney or kidney damage
• Stones that keep causing symptoms

Procedures

• Shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): sound waves break stones into small pieces that pass in urine
• Ureteroscopy with laser: a thin scope goes through the urethra to break or remove stones in the ureter or kidney
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): keyhole surgery through the back for large kidney stones
• Ureteral stent or nephrostomy tube: to drain an infected, blocked kidney urgently
• Open surgery: rarely needed

After treatment

Rest, fluids, pain relief and follow-up scans. Stone analysis and prevention advice.

Is it curable?

An existing stone can be removed or passed. Stones often return unless the causes are treated, so prevention is part of treatment.

Complementary care

Ayurveda and herbal options may be used as an adjunct. They should not delay imaging or urgent procedures.

Key point

Small stones often pass with fluids and pain relief. Infection with blockage needs urgent hospital drainage.

Before your appointment

Note when the pain began, where it is, and whether you have noticed blood, fever, nausea or burning in your urine. Record how much you drink and pass urine in a day. List medicines and supplements, especially vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and herbal products. Mention previous stones, gout, bowel surgery, urinary infections and family history. Bring earlier scans and reports. If you pass a stone, save it for analysis. Ask about tests, the stone type and a prevention plan. Call 112 for fever with pain or if you pass no urine.