Kidney stone treatment depends on the stone’s size, location, and the symptoms it causes. While some small stones can pass naturally with simple hydration and pain control, others require medical procedures such as shockwave therapy or ureteroscopy. Understanding all available treatments helps you choose the safest and most effective approach for your condition.
Tip: If pain becomes intense or you develop fever, treatment should not be delayed. Infection with a blocked kidney is a medical emergency.
Main Treatment Approaches
1. Natural Passage (For Small Stones)
Many stones under 5 mm may pass on their own.
What helps natural passage:
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Drinking 2–3 liters of water per day
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Taking prescribed pain relievers
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Using alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin) to relax the ureter
For more on early signs of passing stones, visit our Symptoms category.
Related medical guidance available at Mayo Clinic.
2. Pain Management
Pain is often the most difficult part of kidney stones. Treatment usually includes:
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NSAIDs (ibuprofen, ketorolac)
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Acetaminophen
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Stronger medications if pain is severe
Pain typically appears in waves because the ureter spasms as the stone moves.
See how stone size affects pain in our Stone Types category.
For external reference, check pain treatment recommendations at Cleveland Clinic.
3. Medical Expulsive Therapy (MET)
Doctors often prescribe medications to help stones pass more easily.
Common MET drugs:
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Tamsulosin
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Nifedipine
These medications reduce ureter spasms and speed stone passage.
4. Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL)
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A non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to break kidney stones into smaller fragments.
Best for:
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Stones under 2 cm
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Stones located in the kidney or upper ureter
Advantages:
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No surgical incision
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Quick recovery
Learn more procedural details in our Treatment category main page.
Relevant clinical information: American Urological Association.
5. Ureteroscopy (URS)
A thin scope is passed through the urethra and bladder into the ureter.
Used for:
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Stones stuck in the ureter
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Stones that don’t respond to SWL
The surgeon may remove the stone or break it with laser energy.
6. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for large kidney stones (typically >2 cm).
Key features:
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A small incision is made in the back
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A channel is created to the kidney
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The stone is removed or broken up
PCNL is one of the most effective options for large or complex stones.
7. Treatment for Infection + Stones (Emergency)
When a stone blocks urine flow and infection occurs, immediate treatment is critical.
Emergency steps may include:
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IV antibiotics
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Placing a ureteral stent
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Percutaneous nephrostomy to drain the kidney
Learn warning signs in our Symptoms category.
Medical emergency information available at NIH.
When to Seek Treatment Urgently
Contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
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Fever or chills
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Persistent vomiting
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Uncontrolled pain
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Difficulty urinating
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Blood in urine that keeps returning
Ignoring these warning signs may lead to serious kidney damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do all kidney stones need treatment?
A: No. Small stones often pass naturally, especially if they are under 5 mm.
Q: How long does stone passage take?
A: It may take days to weeks. Larger stones take longer and may need medical intervention.
Q: Is SWL painful?
A: Mild discomfort is possible, but pain is usually well-controlled with medication.
Q: Will the stone come back after treatment?
A: Kidney stones often recur, so follow-up care and prevention strategies are important.
Summary
Kidney stone treatment ranges from natural passage with hydration to advanced procedures such as SWL, ureteroscopy, and PCNL. The right approach depends on stone size, location, and symptoms. Early treatment helps prevent complications, especially when infection is present. Understanding each option empowers you to make informed decisions and reduces the risk of long-term kidney problems.
Check our Prevention category for long-term strategies and Diet & Nutrition for stone-preventing foods.
More detailed treatment information is available through the American Urological Association.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer:
This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions about your health or medical conditions. Never disregard professional guidance or delay seeking medical care based on information you have read on this website.
