Stages of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones follow a general course, though not everyone goes through every stage.

1. Crystal formation

Minerals in concentrated urine form tiny crystals. There are usually no symptoms.

2. Stone growth

Crystals stick together and grow over weeks to months or longer. A stone in the kidney may cause no pain, or only a dull ache.

3. Stone movement and obstruction

When the stone moves into the ureter it may block urine flow, causing sudden, severe, wave-like pain, nausea and blood in the urine. This is called renal colic.

4. Passing the stone

• Stones under 5 mm pass on their own in most people, often within 1 to 4 weeks
• Larger stones are less likely to pass and may need treatment

5. Recovery or complications

• After a stone passes, symptoms settle
• A stone that stays can cause infection, swelling of the kidney (hydronephrosis) and kidney damage

Recurrence

Without prevention, many people form another stone within 5 to 10 years.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes ashmari moving from a stage of crystal-like deposit to a stage of pain and blocked urine. This is traditional and not a medical staging.

When to get care

A first episode of severe flank pain, any fever with pain, or pain that does not settle in a day or two.

Key point

Most small stones pass, but a blocked or infected kidney needs urgent care.

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.