Kidney Stones: Common Myths, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Kidney stones are a common urological condition, and many patients have questions and misconceptions about why they occur, who is more affected, and how they are treated. Concerns such as whether kidney stones are more common in men, whether every stone causes pain, or whether surgery is always required are frequently raised. Understanding these aspects can help patients seek timely and appropriate care.

Are kidney stones more common in men?

Kidney stones are observed more frequently in men compared to women. One contributing factor is lifestyle-related, including sedentary work patterns, long working hours, limited physical activity, and inadequate water intake. However, while the risk is higher in men, women can also develop kidney stones.

Do all kidney stones cause pain?

Not all kidney stones cause pain. Pain typically occurs when a stone moves from the kidney into the urinary tract (ureter) and becomes lodged there. This blockage can obstruct urine flow, leading to kidney swelling and significant pain.

In contrast, some patients may have large stones—sometimes larger than one centimeter—located in the kidney without experiencing any pain. Therefore, the presence or absence of pain depends largely on the stone’s location rather than its size alone.

Is there a specific diet for all kidney stone patients?

There is no single diet that applies to all kidney stone patients. Dietary recommendations depend on the type of stone identified. Common stone types include calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, and cystine stones.

For example, in patients with calcium oxalate stones, foods high in oxalates—such as tomatoes—may need to be consumed in moderation rather than eliminated completely. Proper evaluation of the stone type is essential before making dietary changes.

Can kidney stones be dissolved with medication?

In most cases, kidney stones cannot be dissolved with tablets or medications. Only a small percentage (around 2–5%) of stones, such as cystine stones, may respond to specific medications.

For the majority of stones, medical treatment focuses on symptom control and facilitating natural passage rather than dissolving the stone.

Importance of water intake

Adequate hydration plays the most crucial role in both treatment and prevention of kidney stones. Drinking at least 3 to 3.5 liters of water daily increases urine output, which helps flush stones out of the urinary system naturally and reduces the risk of new stone formation.

Does cranberry juice help with kidney stones?

Cranberry juice is commonly associated with urinary health, but there is no strong scientific evidence to prove that it prevents kidney stones or helps them pass. It is mainly used for the prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and may provide symptomatic relief in some patients, but it is not a proven treatment for kidney stones.

Does every kidney stone require surgery?

Surgery is not required for every kidney stone patient. Treatment decisions depend on multiple factors, including:

• Size of the stone
• Location (kidney, ureter, or urinary bladder)
• Number of stones
• Severity of symptoms

Small stones, especially those measuring 5–6 mm in the ureter, often pass naturally with conservative management such as pain relief, adequate hydration, and regular monitoring.

Understanding kidney stones and their management helps reduce unnecessary anxiety and supports better treatment outcomes. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a urology specialist is always recommended.