Kidney Stones Treatment

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that can cause severe pain, flank discomfort, and urinary obstruction. At University Hospital Sharjah, our Urology team provides comprehensive Kidney Stones Treatment supported by expert evaluation, advanced imaging, and minimally invasive options including laser ureteroscopy and shock wave lithotripsy.

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Overview

About Kidney Stones Treatment

Kidney stones develop when certain substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, or cystine, become concentrated and form crystals. These crystals may gradually grow into stones within the kidney or urinary tract.

The severity of the condition depends on the stone’s size, location, and whether it interferes with urine flow. Smaller stones may pass without intervention, while larger or obstructing stones may require specialist treatment.

Early assessment helps determine the most appropriate approach, relieve symptoms, identify complications, and reduce the risk of kidney damage or recurrent stone formation.

Symptoms & Related Concerns

Common symptoms and related concerns

Flank or Back Pain

Kidney stones may cause sudden, severe pain in the side or back below the ribs.

Pain Radiating to the Groin

Pain may move toward the lower abdomen or groin as the stone travels through the ureter.

Blood in the Urine

Urine may appear pink, red, or brown due to irritation within the urinary tract.

Painful Urination

Burning, discomfort, or increased urgency may occur when a stone moves closer to the bladder.

Nausea & Vomiting

Severe renal colic can trigger nausea or vomiting.

Fever & Chills

Fever with a suspected obstructing stone may indicate infection and requires urgent medical assessment.

When to Consult a Doctor

Consider seeing a urologist in Sharjah if:

You develop severe or persistent pain in the side, back, or groin.

Blood appears in the urine.

Urination becomes painful or difficult.

Pain is accompanied by nausea or repeated vomiting.

You have recurrent kidney stones or a previous history of stones.

Symptoms continue despite hydration and pain relief.

You develop fever or chills with urinary symptoms.

A scan has identified a kidney or ureteric stone requiring follow-up.

Causes & Risk Factors

PRIMARY CAUSES

Low fluid intake
High urinary calcium
High oxalate levels
Increased uric acid
Recurrent urinary infections
Certain metabolic conditions
Some medications
Genetic disorders affecting mineral balance

RISK FACTORS

Previous kidney stones
Family history of stone disease
Dehydration
Living or working in hot climates
High salt intake
Diets high in certain animal proteins
Obesity
Diabetes or metabolic syndrome
Certain digestive disorders or surgeries
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Some inherited conditions

Diagnosis & Assessment

Urology Consultation

Review of pain, urinary symptoms, previous kidney stones, medical history, medications, diet, fluid intake, and family history.

Physical Examination

Assessment of pain location, hydration status, fever, abdominal or flank tenderness, and other signs that may suggest obstruction or infection.

Urine & Blood Tests

Urine testing may identify blood, infection, or crystal abnormalities. Blood tests can assess kidney function, calcium, uric acid, electrolytes, and other relevant factors.

Diagnostic Imaging

Ultrasound, X-ray, or CT imaging may be used to determine the stone’s size, location, number, and whether it is blocking urinary flow.

Treatment & Care Options

Conservative Management

Small stones that are likely to pass naturally may be managed with hydration, appropriate pain control, and medical follow-up.

Medical Expulsive Therapy

Selected patients may be prescribed medication to help relax the ureter and support passage of certain stones, depending on stone size and location.

Shock Wave Lithotripsy

Shock wave treatment may be used to break selected kidney stones into smaller fragments that can pass more easily through the urinary tract.

Ureteroscopy & Laser Treatment

A small endoscopic instrument can be passed through the urinary tract to reach the stone. Laser energy may then be used to fragment or remove it.

Percutaneous Kidney Stone Surgery

Larger or more complex kidney stones may require a minimally invasive procedure performed through a small opening in the back to access and remove the stone.

Urgent Drainage When Needed

If a stone causes urinary obstruction together with infection, urgent drainage of the kidney may be required before definitive stone treatment.

UHS Approach

At University Hospital Sharjah, our Urology team provides personalized kidney stone care supported by specialist evaluation, advanced imaging, minimally invasive treatment options, and preventive follow-up for recurrent stones.

Experienced Urology Specialists

Advanced Stone Diagnostics & Procedures

Personalized Kidney Stone Care

Related Services / Conditions

Urology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best treatment for kidney stones?

The best kidney stones treatment depends on the stone’s size, location, type, symptoms, and whether it is causing blockage or infection. Small stones may pass naturally with hydration, pain management, and medical follow-up, while larger or more complex stones may require procedures such as shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy with laser treatment, or percutaneous stone removal.

When does a kidney stone need to be broken up?

A kidney stone may need to be broken up when it is too large to pass naturally, causes persistent pain, blocks urine flow, contributes to repeated infections, or affects kidney function. The decision is based on imaging results, stone size and location, and the patient’s symptoms.

How are kidney stones treated?

Treatment may include increased fluid intake, pain relief, medications that help selected stones pass, or procedures to remove or fragment the stone. Depending on the case, options may include shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy and laser treatment, or minimally invasive kidney stone surgery.

Can kidney stones be removed without surgery?

Yes. Many kidney stones can be managed without open surgery. Small stones may pass naturally, while minimally invasive options such as shock wave lithotripsy or endoscopic laser treatment can treat many stones without traditional surgical incisions. The most suitable approach depends on the individual case.

Where can I find a doctor for kidney stone treatment?

Patients with persistent kidney stone symptoms, recurrent stones, or stones identified on imaging should consult a urologist. At University Hospital Sharjah, the Urology team provides specialist assessment, diagnostic imaging, and personalized kidney stones treatment based on stone size, location, symptoms, and overall urinary health.

Ready to take the next step?

Learn about kidney stones treatment, symptoms, diagnosis, care options, related doctors, and when to book an appointment at UHS.

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