About the topic
Stones may cause severe waves of side or back pain, sometimes spreading to the groin. Painful symptoms need medical assessment.
Practical care & comfort
- Follow the fluid and medicine plan recommended after assessment.
- Bring previous scans and tell your doctor about any fluid restrictions.
- Do not start restrictive diets or assume every painful stone will pass without treatment.
Symptoms & signs
- Severe side or lower back pain that may come in waves.
- Pain travelling towards the groin, often with nausea or vomiting.
- Urinary frequency, cloudy urine or fever; small stones may cause no symptoms.
When to speak with a clinician: Get urgent assessment for severe pain, fever or shivering. Some stones need a procedure rather than home management.
Food & nutrition
Prevention depends on stone type and your health. Do not force fluids when you cannot urinate, or delay urgent care for severe pain, fever or feeling very unwell.
Foods & nutrition to follow
- After assessment, follow your clinician’s water plan and any fluid limits.
- Include normal dietary calcium and a varied, fibre-containing diet.
Foods to limit or avoid
- Reduce excess salt and frequent fizzy, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks.
- Avoid restrictive low-calcium or other stone diets without individual advice.
About this guide
General adult health information; it does not diagnose your symptoms or replace individual medical advice. Follow any plan your treating team has given you.
Further reading from the clinical sources used for this guide: