Kidney Stone Causes and Treatment
We provide accurate diagnosis, modern stone-fragmentation options, and specialized endoscopy to ensure stones are removed quickly and safely, and to improve kidney function.
Kidney Stone Causes and Treatment
Restoring comfort and health under the care of Dr. Yaman Al-Tal
Do you feel pain in the sides of your abdomen or back, notice blood in the urine, or have difficulty urinating? Kidney or ureteral stones may be the cause. At Dr. Yaman Al-Tal’s clinic (Consultant Urologic Surgeon and Men’s Health), we provide modern, comprehensive solutions to treat urinary tract stones using the latest technologies—within a safe, private medical setting with reliable results.
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones (also known as kidney stone disease / nephrolithiasis, and sometimes referred to as kidney inflammation) are a common condition among people aged 30–60, and the incidence in men is about double that in women.
They form due to solid deposits made of minerals and salts in the urine, which crystallize inside the kidneys into small stones (like grains of sand). Their size gradually increases when the concentration of these deposits in the urine rises beyond the amount of fluid present—fluid normally helps dilute salts and reduces stone formation.
Often, you may not feel kidney stones or notice them passing in the urine. Symptoms usually begin when stones move from the kidney into the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder). They then pass out of the body through the bladder in the urine. If stones—especially larger ones—remain in the ureter because they are difficult to pass, they can block the urinary tract and prevent urine flow from the kidney to the bladder, causing pain. This can later lead to kidney infection or kidney scarring (fibrosis).
Dr. Yaman Altal
Consultant urology and kidney surgeon in Jordan. Consultant in endoscopic and robotic surgery for kidney, prostate, and bladder tumors.
14 years of experience in the United Kingdom.
Subspecialty training at Imperial College London University Hospital in prostate surgery, robotics, and endoscopy.
How do we treat kidney stones?
At Dr. Yaman Al-Tal’s clinic, we adopt a comprehensive treatment plan that includes:
Accurate diagnosis: Urine tests, blood tests, and imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan to determine stone size and location.
Initial conservative treatment: Increasing water intake, adjusting diet, and medications that help break down stones or support their passage.
Advanced procedures (when needed): Shock-wave stone fragmentation or laser treatment, or ureter/kidney endoscopy to remove larger stones.
Post-treatment follow-up: To reduce recurrence, optimize diet, and monitor kidney function.
Causes of kidney stone formation
The main cause of kidney stone formation is dehydration and fluid loss, which reduces urine volume. This increases the concentration of salts and minerals in the urine (urine may look darker), raising the chance of deposits forming and stones developing. In addition, several factors increase the risk of kidney stones, including:
A family history of kidney stones.
A diet high in salts and minerals that contribute to stone formation.
Obesity.
Digestive disorders that cause chronic diarrhea and therefore more fluid loss and reduced urine volume—such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis—or having surgeries like gastric bypass, which can affect calcium absorption.
Excessive intake of supplements such as calcium and vitamin D, which can affect calcium levels in the body.
Use of seizure (epilepsy) and migraine medications—especially those containing topiramate (Topiramate).
Certain medical conditions, including overactive parathyroid glands (hyperparathyroidism), kidney/urinary tract infections, and renal tubular acidosis.
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Frequently Asked Questions about kidney stone treatment
What symptoms suggest kidney stones?
The most common symptoms are severe pain in the flank or lower back, burning during urination, blood in the urine, nausea or vomiting, and frequent urination—especially at night.
How are kidney stones diagnosed?
Diagnosis is done through urine and blood tests, along with kidney imaging using ultrasound or a CT scan to accurately identify the stone’s size and location.
Can kidney stones return after treatment?
Yes. If underlying causes such as diet or dehydration are not addressed, stones can form again. That’s why a preventive plan is recommended after treatment, including drinking enough water and avoiding foods high in salt.
When should you see a doctor immediately?
You should seek medical attention urgently if you have severe pain that doesn’t improve, blood in the urine, a high temperature (fever), or a complete stop in urine flow—these signs may require immediate intervention.
Does stone treatment affect kidney function?
Modern treatments such as laser lithotripsy or shock-wave lithotripsy are very safe and preserve kidney function when performed under the supervision of a specialist like Dr. Yaman Al-Tal.
How can kidney stones be prevented from returning after treatment?
Recurrence risk can be reduced by drinking enough water daily (no less than 2–3 liters), avoiding foods high in salt and animal protein, and increasing intake of fruits and vegetables with high water content. Regular kidney checkups and follow-up with a specialist are also recommended to detect early signs of new stone formation.