About Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are one of the most widely found urinary tract conditions. Each year, people make close to 3 million visits to doctors and more than half a million people go to emergency rooms for kidney stone problems.
A kidney stone is made of small crystals that can form when urine has too much of certain substances Most kidney stones pass out of the body on their own. However, several different treatments are available for those stones that do not pass on their own and could cause lasting symptoms or other problems.
Signs or Symptoms
Most people won’t show any signs of a kidney stone until it has formed, begins to move in the urinary tract and blocks the flow of urine. At this point some might feel a sharp pain in the lower back, side or groin.
Other symptoms may include:
- Blood in your urine
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever and chills
Diagnosis
If you think you might have a kidney stone, be sure to see your physician or go to an emergency room. Tests can be done to find out whether or not you have a kidney stone.
Treatment
Smaller kidney stones will likely pass through the body on their own. To help the body do this, treatment may include drinking plenty of fluid and prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers. Fever and chills can mean infection, so be sure to get in touch with your doctor right away if you have either of these symptoms.
Sometimes, stones do not pass on their own and additional medical or surgical treatment may be needed.
Members can log in to their Blue Access for MembersSM account for additional information about kidney health.
Sources: Medline Plus 
, National Center for Biotechnology Information , National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse
