Hello, I'm Dr. Smith, a board-certified nephrologist. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases, including kidney stones.

Kidney stones are a common and often painful condition that can affect anyone. They are formed when substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, crystallize and harden into stones. These stones can vary in size, from a grain of sand to a golf ball.

It's important to understand that not all kidney stones require immediate medical attention. However, there are certain signs and symptoms that indicate you should seek medical advice right away.

Here are some key indicators that you should visit your doctor or seek emergency medical care:

* Severe pain: This is usually the most prominent symptom of a kidney stone. The pain is often described as excruciating and can be located in the lower back, side, or groin. The pain may come and go, or it may be constant.
* Blood in the urine: This is a common symptom of kidney stones, and it can range from a slight pink tint to a dark red color.
* Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms are often associated with the intense pain caused by kidney stones.
* Fever and chills: These symptoms suggest an infection, which can be a serious complication of kidney stones.
* Difficulty urinating: You may have a frequent urge to urinate, but only a small amount of urine is released each time.
* Cloudy or foul-smelling urine: This may also indicate an infection.

**When should you seek urgent medical attention?**

If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical care:

* **Severe pain that doesn't improve with pain medication:** This could indicate a larger stone or a blockage in your urinary tract.
* High fever (over 101°F): This suggests a serious infection, which may require intravenous antibiotics.
* **Blood in your urine that is bright red or persistent:** This could be a sign of bleeding in your urinary tract.
* Inability to urinate: This could be a sign of a complete blockage of your urinary tract, requiring immediate intervention.

**What to expect during your visit to the doctor:**

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you are taking. They will also conduct a physical exam and order tests, such as:

* Urinalysis: This test analyzes your urine for blood, bacteria, and other abnormalities.
* Blood tests: These tests can check your kidney function and look for signs of infection.
* Imaging tests: These may include an ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray to visualize the kidneys and identify the size, location, and number of stones.

Treatment options for kidney stones:

The treatment for kidney stones depends on the size, location, and severity of your symptoms.

* Small stones: Many small stones pass on their own with adequate hydration and pain medication.
* Larger stones: You may need medication to help pass the stone or procedures to break up or remove the stone.

Prevention of kidney stones:

You can help prevent kidney stones by:

* Drinking plenty of fluids: This helps to dilute your urine and make it less likely for stones to form.
* Eating a healthy diet: Limit your intake of sodium, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods.
* Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity can increase your risk of developing kidney stones.
* Taking medication: If you have a history of kidney stones, your doctor may recommend taking medication to help prevent them from forming.

Remember, it's important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you suspect you may have a kidney stone. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to minimize complications and prevent long-term kidney damage.

If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact your doctor or a nephrologist.
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Call a doctor immediately if you have symptoms that suggest you have a kidney stone, such as:Severe pain in your side, abdomen, groin, or genitals. It may get worse in waves.Blood in your urine.Signs of a urinary tract infection, such as pain or burning when you urinate.read more >>