Kidney stones are one of those health problems you think will never happen to you—until they do. And when they strike, the pain is unforgettable. But beyond the obvious agony, there’s a lot most people don’t know about kidney stones—truths that can help you prevent, manage, and recover better.

Let’s break the silence and uncover what nobody tells you about kidney stones.

What Are Kidney Stones, Really?

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They develop when urine becomes too concentrated, allowing minerals like calcium, oxalate, or uric acid to crystallize and stick together.

These stones can range in size—from as small as a grain of sand to as big as a golf ball—and they can move into the urinary tract, causing severe pain and other complications.

It’s Not Just About Drinking Water

Yes, staying hydrated is important. But here's the truth: many people who drink plenty of water still get kidney stones.

Why? Because hydration is only one piece of the puzzle. Other factors like your diet, genetics, medications, and even lifestyle choices play a major role. You could drink liters of water and still form stones if your diet is high in oxalates or sodium.

Not All Kidney Stones Are the Same

There’s a common misconception that all kidney stones are the same. In reality, there are different types, and each type has different causes and preventive strategies:

• Calcium Oxalate Stones – The most common type. Linked to high oxalate intake (found in spinach, beets, and nuts).
• Uric Acid Stones – Often related to high-protein diets and dehydration.
• Struvite Stones – Usually the result of chronic urinary tract infections.
• Cystine Stones – Rare and typically genetic.

The Pain Isn’t Always Where You Expect

Most people associate kidney stone pain with the lower back or side. But here’s what they don’t tell you—it can radiate to the abdomen, groin, or even genitals, often mimicking other conditions.

Pain can come in waves, vary in intensity, and sometimes be accompanied by:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Blood in the urine
• A constant urge to urinate
• Burning sensation while peeing

If you experience these symptoms, especially alongside fever or chills, seek urgent care. Kidney stones can lead to infections and kidney damage if not treated on time.

“Passing a Stone” Isn’t Always the End

Passing a kidney stone can feel like victory—but your body may not be done. Kidney stones tend to recur, and up to 50% of people will have another stone within 5–10 years if they don’t take preventive measures.

Many patients ignore long-term care once the pain is gone. That’s a mistake. Long-term follow-ups, lifestyle changes, and regular urine analysis can help stop history from repeating.

Prevention Requires More Than Just One Change

You might be told to “drink more water” or “cut down on salt”—but preventing kidney stones usually requires a combination of changes:

• Drink 2.5–3 liters of water a day
• Reduce salt and processed foods
• Limit high-oxalate foods (like spinach, almonds, and chocolate)
• Eat calcium-rich foods (not supplements).
• Cut back on animal protein if you form uric acid stones
• Stay active to help manage weight and metabolic health

Dr. Rahul Yadav works closely with patients to craft practical plans that address both lifestyle and medical factors—because prevention isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Some Stones Can Be Silent

Not all kidney stones cause pain. Some are “silent,” meaning they don’t cause symptoms but may be picked up during imaging for other issues.

That doesn’t mean they’re harmless. Silent stones can still damage kidney tissue over time or suddenly move and block urine flow. That’s why regular follow-up imaging is essential if you’ve had stones before—even if you feel fine.

Treatment Isn’t Always Surgery

Another myth? That every kidney stone requires surgery. In truth, many small stones (under 5mm) pass naturally with proper hydration, medication, and monitoring.

When intervention is needed, options include:

• Medical Expulsive Therapy (MET) – Uses medication to help stones pass naturally
• Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL) – Breaks stones into small pieces using sound waves
• Ureteroscopy (URS) – Uses a small scope to remove or break the stone
• PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy) – Used for larger or complex stones

Dr. Rahul Yadav tailors treatment based on stone size, location, and patient preference—prioritizing minimal discomfort and maximum results.

It’s Not Just an Adult Problem

Think kidney stones only affect adults? Think again. Cases in children and teens are on the rise, often linked to poor diet, dehydration, and obesity.

If your child complains of back pain, abdominal pain, or blood in the urine—don’t ignore it. Early diagnosis and dietary counseling can prevent long-term complications.

Take Action Before the Pain Starts

Whether you've passed a kidney stone or want to avoid one altogether, now is the time to take your urinary health seriously.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rahul Yadav today to understand your risk factors, get tested, and receive a personalised prevention plan.

FAQs

1. How can I tell if I have a kidney stone?

Look for severe back/side pain, blood in urine, nausea, and frequent urination. A scan is the only way to confirm.

2. Can stress cause kidney stones?

Stress alone doesn’t cause stones, but it can affect hydration, diet, and hormone levels—indirectly increasing your risk.

3. Is surgery always needed for kidney stones?

No. Many stones pass naturally. Others may be treated with non-invasive procedures like lithotripsy.

4. Are kidney stones genetic?

Yes, family history can increase your risk—especially with rare types like cystine stones.

5. How soon should I see a urologist?

If you suspect a stone or have had one in the past, it’s best to consult early for prevention and treatment guidance.