Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. Kidney stones generally form when urine becomes concentrated allowing crystallisation to occur. People who are obese, who follow a certain type of diet and who are on certain medication / supplements are likely to develop kidney stones. Passing kidney stones can be painful however, stones of smaller size easily pass through and can be dealt with enough hydration and painkillers. Surgery may be required only if diagnosis is delayed. Kidney stones cause symptoms only when they move and pass into the ureters. If they get lodged in the ureter, it may block urine flow causing sharp pain.

Kidney stones can irritate the lining of the urinary tract causing discomfort and pain during urination. Kidney stones can irritate the bladder causing the need to urinate more frequently. It may come as a surprise that even after peeing in small amounts each time, the need doesn’t go.