Passing Razor Blades? Why Your Kidneys Form Stones & Medically-Approved Next Steps

If you've ever heard someone describe passing kidney stones as "like passing razor blades," that's not exaggeration. Kidney stones can cause some of the most intense pain a person can experience. The good news? They're common, treatable, and often preventable once you understand what's happening inside your body.

Here's what causes kidney stones, what symptoms to watch for, and what medically approved next steps you should take.

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What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Your kidneys filter waste and extra fluid from your blood to make urine. When certain substances in the urine become too concentrated, they can crystallize and clump together—forming a stone.

These stones may:

• Stay in the kidney
• Move into the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder)
• Travel down to the bladder and out of the body

It's when a stone moves—especially through the ureter—that severe pain often occurs.

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Why Do Kidneys Form Stones?

Kidney stones form when your urine contains more crystal-forming substances than it can dilute. Several factors increase your risk:

1. Dehydration

Not drinking enough water is one of the biggest causes. Concentrated urine allows minerals to stick together and form crystals.

2. Diet

Certain dietary habits can increase risk:

• High salt intake
• High animal protein consumption
• Excess sugar or sugary drinks
• Very high oxalate foods (like spinach, nuts, and chocolate) in some individuals

3. Family History

If someone in your family has had kidney stones, your risk is higher.

4. Certain Medical Conditions

• Obesity
• Gout
• Diabetes
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Digestive diseases affecting nutrient absorption

5. Medications

Some medications can increase stone risk, including certain diuretics and calcium-based antacids.

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Types of Kidney Stones

Not all kidney stones are the same. Identifying the type helps guide prevention.

• Calcium stones (most common): Usually calcium oxalate.
• Uric acid stones: More common in people with gout or high-protein diets.
• Struvite stones: Often linked to urinary tract infections.
• Cystine stones: Rare, caused by a genetic disorder.

Your doctor may analyze a passed stone to determine its type.

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Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones don't always cause symptoms—until they move.

Common signs include:

• Sudden, severe pain in the back or side
• Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen or groin
• Pain that comes in waves
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blood in the urine (pink, red, or brown)
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Burning with urination
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

The pain from kidney stones (renal colic) can be intense and unpredictable. It often peaks in waves as the ureter spasms around the stone.

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When Kidney Stones Are an Emergency

Most kidney stones are not life-threatening, but complications can be serious.

Seek immediate medical care if you have:

• Fever and chills (possible infection)
• Severe pain that prevents sitting still or finding comfort
• Persistent vomiting
• Inability to urinate
• Signs of dehydration
• A weakened immune system

An infected, blocked kidney can become dangerous quickly. Do not delay care in these situations.

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What Happens at the Doctor's Office?

If kidney stones are suspected, a doctor may order:

• Urine tests (to check for blood or infection)
• Blood tests (to evaluate kidney function)
• Imaging tests (CT scan or ultrasound)

CT scans are often the most accurate way to confirm kidney stones and measure their size.

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Treatment: What Are the Medically-Approved Next Steps?

Treatment depends on the stone's size, location, and your symptoms.

Small Stones (Usually Under 5–6 mm)

Many small kidney stones pass on their own within a few days to weeks.

Your doctor may recommend:

• Drinking plenty of water (unless medically restricted)
• Prescription pain relievers
• Alpha-blocker medications to relax the ureter
• Straining urine to catch the stone for analysis

Larger Stones

If a stone won't pass or causes complications, procedures may include:

• Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL): Uses sound waves to break the stone into smaller pieces.
• Ureteroscopy: A small scope removes or breaks up the stone.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Surgical removal for very large stones.

These procedures are generally effective and commonly performed.

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Preventing Future Kidney Stones

Once you've had kidney stones, your risk of another episode increases. Prevention matters.

Drink More Fluids

Aim for enough fluid to produce about 2 to 2.5 liters of urine daily (unless your doctor advises otherwise).

Water is best.

Reduce Salt Intake

High sodium increases calcium in urine, raising stone risk.

Moderate Animal Protein

Too much red meat, poultry, and seafood may increase uric acid levels.

Get Enough Calcium (But Not Too Much)

Low dietary calcium can actually increase stone risk. Most people should get calcium from food rather than supplements unless directed by a doctor.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is linked to kidney stones.

Follow Personalized Advice

If you've had stones before, your doctor may recommend:

• 24-hour urine testing
• Specific dietary changes
• Medications to reduce recurrence

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Should You Check Your Symptoms?

If you're experiencing pain that might be related to kidney stones but aren't sure what's causing it, a free AI-powered symptom checker for Nephrolithiasis (Kidney Stones) can help you understand whether your symptoms align with kidney stones and guide you toward appropriate next steps.

However, online tools are not a replacement for medical care—especially if symptoms are severe.

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Can Kidney Stones Cause Long-Term Damage?

Most kidney stones do not cause permanent damage if treated promptly.

However, untreated stones can lead to:

• Recurrent infections
• Kidney blockage
• Reduced kidney function (in severe or prolonged cases)

That's why proper evaluation matters.

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Who Is at Highest Risk?

You may have higher odds of kidney stones if you:

• Are male (though rates in women are rising)
• Are between ages 30–60
• Live in hot climates
• Don't drink enough water
• Have metabolic conditions like gout or diabetes

Knowing your risk can help you take preventive steps early.

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Final Thoughts

Kidney stones are common and painful—but manageable.

They form when minerals in your urine become too concentrated and crystallize. While small stones often pass on their own, larger stones may require medical procedures. Staying hydrated, adjusting your diet, and working with your doctor can significantly reduce recurrence.

If you suspect kidney stones, don't ignore severe pain or signs of infection. Some complications can become serious quickly.

If symptoms are intense, persistent, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, or inability to urinate, seek immediate medical care.

And even if symptoms seem mild, it's wise to speak to a doctor about any condition that could be serious or life-threatening. Early evaluation can prevent unnecessary complications and help protect your kidney health long term.

Kidney stones may feel like passing razor blades—but with the right steps, you can move from crisis to prevention.