About kidney stones
Kidney stones form when minerals in the urine crystallize. A stone that moves into the ureter, the tube from the kidney to the bladder, can cause sudden, severe flank pain that may spread to the groin, along with nausea and blood in the urine. Many people will have more than one stone in their lifetime, so prevention matters as much as treatment.
When it is urgent
Fever or chills with a kidney stone, a single kidney, uncontrolled pain or vomiting are urgent and may need same-day drainage of the kidney. Go to an emergency department or call 678-344-8900; same-day and next-day appointments are often available.
Diagnosis
A low-dose CT scan is the most accurate test for kidney stones; ultrasound is also useful, especially to avoid radiation. Urine tests check for infection. The stone's size and location help predict whether it will pass on its own.
Treatment options
Many stones under about 5 millimeters pass with time, fluids, pain control and medication that relaxes the ureter. Larger or stuck stones may be treated with:
- Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy: a thin scope passed through the urinary tract, with no incisions, to break up and remove the stone.
- Shock wave lithotripsy: sound waves applied from outside the body.
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: for large kidney stones, through a small opening in the back.
Prevention
After a stone, Dr. Neal Patel may recommend stone analysis, blood tests and a 24-hour urine study to find the cause. Prevention often includes drinking enough fluid to make about 2.5 liters of urine a day, limiting salt and animal protein, and, for some people, medication.
Preparing for your visit with Dr. Neal Patel
Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, any prior urine, blood or PSA results, and the reports (or discs) from recent imaging. If you can, arrive with a comfortably full bladder, because a urine sample and a bladder scan are often part of the first visit. Write down your main questions so nothing is missed. A family member is welcome to join you. If you prefer Spanish or Korean, let the office know when you book so language support is ready.
Your chart is reviewed before you arrive, and insurance requirements for likely imaging or procedures are checked up front so approvals can move sooner. Before you leave, your orders, prescriptions and follow-up plan are reviewed with you, and you receive education materials tailored to your condition.
At the end of the visit you will receive a written summary in your preferred language that explains what was found, what was ordered and what happens next. Your primary care physician or referring doctor receives a clear update letter with findings, plan and next steps, so everyone caring for you stays informed. Appointments are available at the Johns Creek, Cumming, Decatur and Braselton offices; call 678-344-8900.
Reviewed by Dr. Neal Patel, MD, board-certified urologist. This page is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.