What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are hard crystals formed from chemicals in urine, such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid and phosphate.

Common symptoms

• Sudden severe pain in the side, back, lower abdomen or groin
• Pain or burning during urination
• Blood in urine
• Frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever and chills, which may suggest infection and needs urgent care

Treatment focus

Treatment depends on stone size, location, infection risk and kidney function. Options may include medicines, observation, URSL, RIRS or PCNL.