Kidney stones are crystal masses that form from minerals and proteins in urine. The most common types contain calcium salts. They begin as tiny grains, but can grow to more than an inch. Pain in the key symptom. If stones remain in the kidney they may cause:
* a dull pain,
* kidney damage, or tissue death.

If a large stone passes into a ureter, it can cause severe pain and spasms. The ureters are the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder. Stones can block the flow of urine. A common sign is blood in the urine. This blood may be visible in the urine, or "trace" which means only a test can tell if it is present.

The causes of kidney stones are not always clear. Diet and fluid intake appear to be major factors. Stones seem to be more common in hot climates and during summer months. They are more common in the southeastern United States. This may be because hot weather leads to body fluid loss. It may also be due to regional diet. People with gout can have kidney stones made from uric acid. Stones are more common in men, but rare in children and African Americans.

It is important to drink plenty of water to flush out the urinary system. Reducing calcium in the diet only benefits patients who form calcium based stones. Dietary changes that may help include:
* eating more bran (to absorb bile salts) ,
* limiting your sodium intake, and
* limiting your protein intake.

Physical activity seems to help prevent stones. Certain genetic factors may contribute to having kidney stones. Gout, hormone imbalance, urinary infections, or urinary obstruction are other possible factors.

An exam for kidney stones includes X-rays and analysis of urine. The healthcare provider may ask for many urine samples to watch changes over the course of the day. A doctor might extract large stones surgically. He or she might also break up large stones with shock waves or ultrasound. Urine tests and analysis of stone fragments will help providers to decide on the right therapy and dietary changes. Without medical treatment after surgical removal, stones will return in half of the patients over the next five years.

The symptoms of kidney stones can be alarming. If you notice blood in your urine or a constant dull or severe collicky pain in the kidney area, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

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