How tiny crystals in your urinary tract cause agonizing pain

Science · Published 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Kidney stones are small, hard crystals that form within the urinary tract. While many pass through the body unnoticed, larger stones can trigger intense physical distress. Understanding the pathophysiology of these minerals reveals how a chemical imbalance in your urine can lead to severe medical intervention.

The formation of kidney stones is primarily driven by a build-up of specific chemicals found within your urine. These substances crystallize into small, hard structures. While minor stones are common and often pass out through urination without any noticeable symptoms, larger stones can cause severe pain that typically originates in the side of the abdomen or the lower back. Medical professionals often evaluate a patient's diet and existing health conditions during diagnosis. They also investigate whether the individual or any family members have a history of these stones. This information helps determine if there is a recurring pattern.

The physical experience of a kidney stone is often characterized by waves of intense pain that may spread to the groin, testicles, or the area around the vaginal opening. Accompanying symptoms can include high temperatures, shivering, nausea, vomiting, and frequent urination with cloudy appearances. Because these conditions involve significant pain management, healthcare providers use various diagnostic tools including urine tests, blood tests, and imaging such as CT scans for adults or ultrasound scans for children under 16 and pregnant individuals. Patients might be asked to collect the stone once it passes for medical examination. This allows doctors to analyze its specific composition more closely. These clinical steps ensure that the underlying cause of crystallization is properly identified.

Treatment varies based on the size of the stone and the severity of the symptoms. Many cases are managed at home using medications to alleviate pain, reduce nausea, and help the stone pass naturally while maintaining high fluid intake. However, larger stones may require clinical procedures: shock waves can be applied to the outside of the body to break them up without anesthetic, or a long, thin tube can be passed through the urethra or a small back incision under general anesthesia to remove the obstruction entirely. The procedure involving shock waves does not require any anesthetic because it occurs on the body's exterior. In contrast, surgical tube insertion requires general anesthesia so the patient remains asleep. Both methods aim to facilitate easier passage or complete removal.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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