Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis)

Mineral and salts in the urine can sometimes precipitate and form very small solid rock-like objects called kidney stones.  Kidney stones are a common problem.  They can cause pain if the stones causes a blockage of urine flow from the kidney or as the stone passed from the kidney to the bladder and out of the body.  If a kidney stone causes an obstruction you may need to see a urologist to help remove or break up the stone into smaller pieces.  If you develop multiple stones a nephrologist can evaluate any underlying conditions that could cause higher risk of kidney stone formation and suggests treatments that can help reduce the risk of future kidney stone formation.