Kidney Stones Facts

Important facts on kidney stones include:
 
  • Most stones will pass out of the body without medical care.
  • Drink plenty of water to keep more stones from forming.
  • People who have a family history of kidney stones or who have had more than one stone are likely to develop more stones.
  • If a person is at risk for developing kidney stones, doctors may perform certain blood and urine tests. These tests can determine which factors can be best altered to reduce that risk.
  • Some patients will need medicines to prevent stones from forming.
  • People with chronic urinary tract infections and kidney stones often need to have problem stones removed. People in this situation should receive careful follow-up care to be sure the infection has cleared.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD