Kidney stones: why flank pain needs an individual assessment

Small stones may pass unnoticed, while others cause severe intermittent flank pain radiating toward the groin. Severe pain or fever and shivering with a suspected stone needs urgent assessment.

Examination, tests and imaging when needed guide treatment. Some stones passing naturally does not make waiting appropriate for every case; larger stones may require a procedure to break up or remove them.

Discuss hydration and diet with your clinician, particularly after recurrence. Do not eliminate calcium or radically change your diet yourself: NHS guidance recommends adequate dietary calcium and professional advice before dietary changes.