kidney stones
about kidney stones
Kidney stones are small, solid mineral deposits that form in a child’s urinary tract. They develop when certain substances in urine become too concentrated and crystallize. Pediatric kidney stones can range from painless to extremely uncomfortable, but most cases respond well to hydration, medication or minor procedures.
kidney stone symptoms
Kidney stone symptoms in children often begin when a stone starts to move or blocks urine flow. Below are common signs to watch for.
sharp pain in side or back
Sudden, intense pain typically on one side of the body, often caused by a moving stone.
pain that spreads to the belly or groin
As the stone shifts, pain may move toward the abdomen or lower groin.
waves of pain
Pain may come and go in cycles, with intense episodes followed by relief.
blood in urine
Urine may appear pink, red or brown due to irritation in the urinary tract.
nausea or vomiting
Pain and blockage may cause your child to feel sick or throw up.
frequent or urgent urination
Your child may feel the need to pee more often or urgently than usual.
diagnosis
Diagnosing kidney stones is straightforward and child-friendly. Doctors use physical exams, urine and blood tests and safe imaging tools to find and measure stones. This helps guide treatment and prevent complications.
The diagnosis process may include:
- Urine tests for blood, crystals or infection
- Blood tests to check kidney function
- Ultrasound or CT scan for stone size/location
- Medical history and symptom review
kidney stone treatment
Kidney stone treatment depends on size and symptoms. Many children pass small stones with fluids and pain relief at home. Large stones rarely pass on their own. If your child has larger stones, severe pain, signs of infection or becomes dehydrated, they may need hospital treatment. In the hospital, children typically receive IV fluids and stronger pain medications to help the stones pass.
For stones that won’t pass on their own, doctors have several effective treatment options:
- Shock wave treatment: Doctors use sound waves to break the kidney stone into smaller pieces so your child can pass them more easily when they go to the bathroom.
- Stone removal with a tiny camera: A doctor uses a thin tube with a light and camera to find the stone and either take it out or break it into smaller pieces. Your child will be asleep during the procedure.
- Surgery through a small cut in the back: For larger stones, doctors make a small cut in the back to reach the kidney and remove the stone. Kids usually stay in the hospital for a few days afterward.
kidney stone FAQs
Curious about kidney stones in kids? Here are answers to common questions families ask about diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
Kidney stones can feel like a dull or sharp pain in your child’s lower back, belly or side, sometimes feeling like it extends from the groin to the side.
Yes, kidney stones can run in families. If your parents, siblings or other close relatives have had kidney stones, your child may be more likely to develop them, too.
Sometimes. Small kidney stones (less than 5 mm or about 0.2 inches) can pass out of your child’s body naturally when they pee, especially if they drink plenty of water.
Kidney stones can form in children of all ages, including infants, though kidney stones in teens and adults occur more often.
Kidney stones can happen to anybody, including girls. However, they are more common in boys.
It depends on the size and location of the kidney stone. Small kidney stones (less than 5 mm or about 0.2 inches) may pass in a week or two. Larger stones can take four weeks to a few months to pass and may require medication or hospital treatment if the stone is too large to pass on its own.
Yes, dehydration is the biggest risk factor for developing kidney stones. When a child is dehydrated, they produce less urine and more urine crystals, which clump together to form stones.
Research shows that drinking sugary beverages like soda and punch is associated with a higher risk of kidney stone formation.
A few kinds of food can contribute to kidney stone formation:
- Salty foods: The high sodium levels in canned foods and prepackaged meals can raise the levels of calcium in urine.
- Animal protein: Eating too much meat (especially red meat), including chicken, beef, pork or fish, can cause kidney stones.
- Foods high in oxalate: Foods such as spinach, parsley, rhubarb, cranberries, celery, peanuts, soy products, fiber cereals and chocolate contain high amounts of oxalate, which can form calcium oxalate kidney stones.
our urology providers
Our pediatric specialists are trained in diagnosing and managing kidney stones in children. They work together to provide whole-child care and support.
related blogs
Explore family-friendly blog articles on hydration tips, dietary prevention and what to do if your child gets a kidney stone.
get kidney stone treatment
If your child has symptoms of a kidney stone, don’t wait. To schedule an appointment with our pediatric urology team, schedule online or call 937-641-4000.
