When is abdominal ultrasound recommended for kidney stones?

Ultrasound can assess the kidneys and bladder, look for swelling caused by urine blockage, and sometimes identify a stone. It may not show every stone, particularly when a stone is small or lies in part of the ureter that is difficult to view. Your clinician may use the scan with urine tests, blood tests, symptoms, and another imaging test if the diagnosis remains uncertain.

Ask whether you need a comfortably full bladder or any other preparation. Bring a list of medicines and describe the pain's location, movement, onset, and severity. Mention blood in the urine, fever, vomiting, reduced urine, pregnancy, or previous stones. Drink fluids according to your clinician's advice; do not force large amounts if you are vomiting or have been told to restrict fluids.

Get urgent medical help for severe uncontrolled pain, fever or chills with urinary symptoms, repeated vomiting, confusion, fainting, inability to pass urine, or markedly reduced urine. A blocked urinary system with infection can become serious and needs prompt treatment.

Ask what the scan is intended to check, whether another test may be needed, how to manage pain safely, and what symptoms should bring you back urgently.