What should you know about chronic kidney stones?

A stone may stay in the kidney without symptoms, move into a ureter, or obstruct urine flow. The size and position of the stone, kidney function, pain, urine results, and infection risk guide care. [Kidney Stones](/conditions/kidney-stones/) can cause [Flank Pain](/symptoms/flank-pain/), abdominal pain, blood in urine, nausea, or [Painful Urination](/symptoms/painful-urination/). Repeated stones may prompt testing of a passed stone or urine to look for preventable patterns.

Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if pain recurs, urinary symptoms persist, or you have a history of stones. A clinician may use urine and blood tests and an [Abdominal Ultrasound](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/abdominal-ultrasound/) to assess the kidneys and urinary tract. Small stones may pass with monitoring and prescribed pain relief; larger or stuck stones may need a urology procedure. Drink fluids according to medical advice, especially if kidney or heart disease affects what is safe. Avoid trying to flush out a stone by forcing fluids.

Seek urgent medical care for fever or chills with flank pain, severe or uncontrolled pain, repeated vomiting, very little urine, or [Difficulty Passing Urine](/symptoms/difficulty-passing-urine/). These features can signal infection or obstruction. [Dehydration](/conditions/dehydration/) may worsen discomfort and needs attention if you cannot keep fluids down.

Where is the stone, and is urine flow blocked? Do I need imaging or a urology referral? What pain relief is suitable for my kidneys? How much should I drink? Can the stone be analysed, and what could help prevent another one?