How to get rid of kidney stones

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that can move from the kidney into the ureter. Pain may come in waves as the urinary tract contracts, often in the flank or abdomen, and may spread towards the groin. Some stones pass in urine without a procedure, while others lodge, block flow or cause infection. Dehydration can make urine more concentrated and may contribute to stone formation, but the cause also depends on diet, medicines, family tendency and medical conditions. [Kidney Stones](/conditions/kidney-stones/) explains the condition in more detail.

Follow a clinician’s advice about fluids; forcing large amounts is unsafe if urine flow is blocked or you have a fluid restriction. Take only recommended pain relief and check before using anti-inflammatory medicines if you have kidney disease, stomach ulcers, take blood thinners or are pregnant. A clinician may prescribe medicine to help a suitable stone pass. Testing can include urine and blood checks and imaging such as an [Abdominal Ultrasound](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/abdominal-ultrasound/). If a stone will not pass or is causing obstruction, treatment may break it up or remove it. Save a passed stone if asked so its composition can be analysed.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening flank pain, fever or chills, repeated vomiting, confusion, faintness, very little urine or inability to pass urine. These signs can indicate infection, dehydration or obstruction and need prompt assessment. Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) for new urinary pain, blood in urine, recurring stones or pain that does not settle. Do not rely on home treatment when you have one functioning kidney, are pregnant or have significant kidney disease.

Where is the stone, is urine flow blocked, and is it reasonable to wait for passage? Which pain medicines and fluid target are safe for me?