Overview
Kidney stones are clusters of little crystals that form in the kidneys and often pass out of the body through the urine. However, sometimes the clusters can clump together and this can cause blockages in the ureters or become lodged in the bladder.
While kidney stones are more common in adults than children, they can still occur. Furthermore, it is important to have these kidney stones checked to see if they were caused by an underlying condition such as a problem with the metabolism or urinary system.
Symptoms
Often there are no symptoms at all, but where there is a blockage then kidney stones can be painful and lead to blood in the urine. A child may also feel generally unwell and have a high temperature and vomit. If the stone passes from the kidney to the ureter, it can be incredibly painful.
Diagnosis
A thorough examination with a doctor will help to diagnose the kidney stones, which may include questions of how the child feels. Scans may also be required to confirm a diagnosis and to understand where they are and how large may be. Kidney stones can cause infections as well, so urine tests will be carried out to identify if an infection is present and to measure the chemicals that cause the stones.
Treatment
Some stones can be broken up using sound waves (lithotripsy) but ones that are stuck may need to be removed by an endoscope and a laser device. In other cases, surgery may be required.
Lithotripsy is a non-surgical way of treating kidney stones. It breaks stones into very small pieces so they can pass naturally in the urine. The treatment uses focused shock waves or, in some cases, laser energy directed at the stone from outside the body.
Benefits
- No incision and no general anaesthetic: usually done as a day case, with patients going home the same day
- Fewer risks: reduces the need for surgery and related complications
- Fast recovery: most people return to normal activities quickly
- Good outcomes: around 75% success rate, especially for stones in the kidney or upper ureter
Risks
- Bleeding: mild bleeding is common, with blood in the urine for a few days. Severe bleeding is uncommon
- Pain or discomfort: bruising and soreness can occur during or after treatment, sometimes needing painkillers
- Infection: urinary tract infections may follow. Look out for fever or painful urination and see a doctor promptly
- Blockage: stone fragments can occasionally block urine flow and may need further treatment such as a stent
- Incomplete clearance: larger or harder stones may need more than one session
Alternatives
- Ureteroscopy: inserting a scope into the bladder or ureter to break stones with a laser
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: keyhole surgery through the back
- Watch and wait: small, symptom-free stones may not require immediate treatment
What to expect
- The procedure takes about 45–60 minutes, lying on a table while shock waves are targeted at the stone using ultrasound or X-ray
- Mild discomfort is expected, but pain relief is provided before and during
- Drinking plenty of water afterwards helps flush out stone fragments and blood
Contact and when to seek help
Get medical advice if you:
- Have severe pain not eased by medication
- Develop a fever or chills
- Notice urine flow is reduced or stops altogether
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