Flushing Kidney Stones

Did you know?

Each year, more than 1 million people in the U.S. rush to the emergency room with pain caused by a kidney stone. Kidney stones are hard, pebble-like pieces of material that form in one or both kidneys. They’re caused by high levels of certain minerals in your urine.

Stones vary in size from tiny crystals that can only be seen with a microscope to stones over an inch wide. Tiny stones may pass out of your body without you even noticing. With larger stones, you won’t be so lucky. Stones that are larger than a pencil eraser can get stuck in the urinary tract—and that can really hurt.

Be Well-Inspired

Probably one of the most common reasons why people form stones is dehydration. When urine is too concentrated, minerals can build up and form stones. So drinking plenty of water is one of the most effective ways of preventing kidney stone disease.

Kidney Stone Clues
So how do you know if you have kidney stones? See your health care provider if you have any of these symptoms:

• Sharp, severe pains in your back, side, lower belly, or groin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blood in your urine, making it look pink, red, or brown
• Constant need to empty your bladder
• Pain when you urinate
• Difficulty urinating