Which specialist treats kidney stones?

Kidney stones can cause sharp flank or abdominal pain, blood in urine, nausea, or difficulty passing urine. A GP can assess the pattern, check for signs of infection or obstruction, and arrange imaging such as an abdominal ultrasound when appropriate.

A urologist specialises in the urinary tract and kidneys. They can advise whether a stone is likely to pass with observation, whether pain and nausea need treatment, and whether a procedure is needed. The choice depends on the stone, its location, symptoms, and your overall health.

Start with a GP consultation unless symptoms are severe or urgent. Bring details of when pain began, where it travels, urinary changes, vomiting, previous stones, and medicines. Follow advice about fluids; drinking may be unsuitable or difficult if you are vomiting or have another condition affecting fluid balance.

A referral to urology may follow examination and imaging, or happen urgently when a blockage, infection, uncontrolled pain, or inability to pass urine is suspected. Do not use leftover pain medicine or antibiotics without advice.

Get urgent help for severe or worsening pain, fever or chills with flank pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, or difficulty passing urine. Blood in urine should be medically assessed, particularly when it occurs with pain, fever, or reduced urine output. These combinations can signal a complication requiring quick treatment.

Ask where the stone may be, whether imaging is needed, what pain relief is suitable, and what symptoms indicate obstruction or infection. Ask when to see a urologist, how follow-up will confirm passage, and what changes may reduce the chance of another stone.