Kidney stones (also called nephrolithiasis) are hard deposits of minerals and acid salts that accumulate together in concentrated urine. Kidney stones form in the kidneys and are often painful when passed to the urinary tract. Passing kidney stones can be quite painful, but the stones usually cause no permanent damage if they’re recognized in a timely fashion. In some situations, if stones become lodged in the urinary tract, are associated with a urinary infection or cause complications.
Medical guidance and good diet can prevent and reduce current, and reoccurring, kidney stone complications. In severe cases, medical procedures may be needed to remove or break up large stones.