What should you know about bilateral kidney stones?

Kidney stones form when substances in urine crystallise. Stones may remain in the kidneys without symptoms, or move into a ureter and cause severe, wave-like pain in the flank, back, or abdomen. Painful urination, nausea, blood in the urine, and difficulty passing urine can occur. Stones on both sides raise concern if either ureter becomes blocked, particularly when urine output falls. Dehydration can make urine more concentrated, but stone formation has several possible contributors, including mineral balance and previous stones. Symptoms cannot show the stone's size or location.

Arrange a GP consultation for suspected or known stones, especially with ongoing pain or urinary changes. Keep a note of pain location, urine output, fever, vomiting, and visible blood. Drink normally if you can and have not been told to restrict fluids; forcing fluids during severe pain or vomiting may make you feel worse. An abdominal ultrasound can look for swelling or stones, although additional imaging may sometimes be needed. Treatment depends on stone size, position, obstruction, infection, kidney function, and whether the stone is likely to pass.

Seek urgent care for fever or chills with stone symptoms, severe or uncontrolled pain, repeated vomiting, very little or no urine, or worsening weakness. Emergency assessment is particularly important when both sides are affected and urine flow decreases. A blocked urinary system with infection can become serious quickly and may require prompt drainage and treatment.

Where are the stones and are either ureter or kidney blocked? How is my kidney function? What pain relief is safe for me? Should I collect a passed stone, change fluids, or have follow-up imaging?