Kidney Stones: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys when urine becomes concentrated. They can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a marble.

Small stones often pass on their own with fluids and medication. Larger ones may need minimally invasive procedures at SSV Hospital.

Common symptoms

• Sharp pain in the side, back or lower abdomen (renal colic)
• Pain that comes in waves and moves as the stone shifts
• Burning while passing urine
• Blood in urine (pink, red or brown)
• Nausea, vomiting or restlessness
• Frequent urge to urinate, or small amounts each time

Treatment options at SSV Hospital

• Conservative care — pain relief, hydration and medication to help pass small stones
• ESWL (shock wave therapy) for medium stones
• URS (ureteroscopy) — passing a thin scope to remove or break the stone
• PCNL — keyhole surgery for large stones
• Full pre-operative and post-operative care with our anaesthesia and critical care team

How to prevent kidney stones

• Drink 3–4 litres of water daily — the single most important step.
• Reduce salt and processed food.
• Limit oxalate-rich foods if you have had oxalate stones (spinach, nuts, beetroot).
• Moderate animal protein intake.
• Get calcium from food (not just supplements) — it actually reduces stone risk.
• Follow up with a urology consultation if you have had stones before.