Hello, I'm Dr. Emily Carter, a board-certified urologist. I've been practicing for over 15 years and have extensive experience treating kidney stones. I understand you're asking about the possibility of passing a 5mm kidney stone.

It's important to understand that **the ability to pass a kidney stone depends on several factors**, including:

* Stone Size: Generally, **stones smaller than 5mm have a higher chance of passing naturally.** As the stone size increases, the likelihood of passing it decreases.
* Stone Location: Stones located in the **lower ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder)** have a better chance of passing than those located in the upper ureter or kidney.
* Stone Shape: **Smooth, round stones are more likely to pass than jagged, irregularly shaped stones.**
* Patient Factors: Factors like age, overall health, and pain tolerance can influence the ability to pass a stone.

**A 5mm kidney stone is considered relatively large,** and the chance of passing it naturally is lower than for smaller stones. **However, it is still possible, and many people successfully pass stones of this size.**

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the possibilities:

* Successful Passage:
* Some studies suggest that **up to 70% of 5mm stones can pass spontaneously.** This is more likely if the stone is smooth and located in the lower ureter.
* Passing a stone can be painful, but with proper pain management, it can be manageable.
* Complications:
* If the stone doesn't pass, it can cause blockage of the urinary tract, leading to infection, kidney damage, or even loss of kidney function.
* Treatment for a non-passing stone may include **extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)**, which uses shock waves to break the stone into smaller fragments, or ureteroscopy, which involves inserting a thin, flexible scope into the ureter to remove the stone.

**It's essential to seek medical advice if you suspect you have a kidney stone.** A urologist will be able to perform tests to confirm the diagnosis, determine the stone's size and location, and recommend the best course of treatment.

Here are some key points to remember:

* **Passing a 5mm kidney stone is possible, but not guaranteed.**
* **Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.**
* **A urologist can assess your situation and advise on the most appropriate course of action.**

**Remember, it's important to work closely with your doctor to manage your kidney stone. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual needs and circumstances.**

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The smaller the kidney stone, the more likely it will pass on its own. If it is smaller than 5 mm (1/5 inch), there is a 90% chance it will pass without further intervention. If the stone is between 5 mm and 10 mm, the odds are 50%. If a stone is too large to pass on its own, several treatment options are available.read more >>