Kidney stones are common, painful, and often unpredictable. If you’ve ever experienced one, you know the discomfort can come on suddenly and intensely. The good news? Today’s treatments are highly advanced — and in most cases, minimally invasive.

At Advanced Urology Centers of New York (AUCNY), our goal is not only to treat kidney stones effectively, but to help patients understand why they form and how to prevent them from coming back.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form inside the kidneys when certain substances in the urine — such as calcium, oxalate, or uric acid — become too concentrated. Over time, these crystals stick together and form stones.

Some stones are small enough to pass naturally. Others can grow larger and become lodged in the urinary tract, causing significant pain and potential complications.

Common Causes of Kidney Stones

There isn’t just one reason stones form. Often, it’s a combination of factors:

  • Dehydration – Not drinking enough water is one of the most common causes.
  • Dietary habits – High sodium, excessive animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods can contribute.
  • Family history – Genetics can increase your risk.
  • Certain medical conditions – Including gout, obesity, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
  • Metabolic imbalances – Some people naturally excrete higher levels of stone-forming minerals.

Men are slightly more likely to develop stones, but women are increasingly affected as well.

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Kidney stone pain is often described as one of the most intense types of pain a person can experience. Symptoms may include:

  • Sharp pain in the back or side
  • Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen or groin
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Blood in the urine
  • Frequent or painful urination
  • Fever or chills (which may indicate infection)

If you experience severe pain or signs of infection, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

How to Prevent Kidney Stones

Prevention starts with understanding your personal risk factors. At AUC of NY, we often perform metabolic evaluations for patients with recurrent stones to tailor prevention strategies.

General prevention tips include:

  • Increase fluid intake – Aim for enough water to produce clear or pale yellow urine.
  • Reduce sodium – High salt intake increases calcium in the urine.
  • Moderate animal protein – Excess red meat can increase stone risk.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Follow personalized dietary guidance if you’ve had stones before.

Small daily changes can significantly lower your risk of recurrence.

Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

If a stone does not pass on its own, we offer advanced, minimally invasive treatments designed to relieve pain and restore normal urinary flow quickly.

Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy

A small scope is passed through the urinary tract (no incisions), allowing the physician to visualize and break the stone into tiny fragments using a laser.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

This non-invasive procedure uses focused sound waves to break stones into smaller pieces that can pass naturally.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)

For larger or complex stones, a small incision in the back allows direct access to the kidney to remove the stone safely and effectively.

These procedures typically involve shorter recovery times, minimal scarring, and faster return to normal activity compared to traditional surgery.

A Word from Dr. Elliot Paul

“Kidney stones are painful, but they are also very treatable,” says Dr. Elliot Paul. “With today’s minimally invasive techniques, most patients can return to normal activities quickly. Just as important, we work closely with our patients to identify why the stone formed so we can help prevent future episodes.”

When to See a Urologist

If you’ve had one kidney stone, you’re at higher risk for another. Early evaluation can make a significant difference — not only in treatment, but in prevention.

At AUCNY, our team provides comprehensive, patient-centered care using the latest diagnostic tools and advanced surgical techniques.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have a history of kidney stones, schedule an appointment with a provider nearest you. Relief — and prevention — are within reach.

About the Author

Elliot M. Paul, MD, FACS

Elliot Paul, MD, FACS

Dr. Elliot M. Paul earned his M.D. from Albert Einstein College of Medicine and completed his urology residency at Long Island Jewish Medical Center. An award-winning researcher and clinician, he is active in the American Urological Association and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He practices general urology with interests in laparoscopy, kidney stones, prostate treatments, female incontinence, and urologic cancers.