Kidney Stones
Pain from being stabbed in the side – Treatment and prevention of recurrence for kidney stones.
That pain is worse than childbirth.
Urinary stones are a condition where substances in the urine harden and block the urinary tract. It is characterized by sudden, severe pain on one side of the body, from the ribs to the lower abdomen, which comes and goes, often accompanied by blood in the urine and nausea.
- If the pain is severe, it is common to receive pain relief treatment in the emergency room and undergo a CT scan.
- Small stones (5mm or less) are often managed by drinking plenty of water and waiting for them to pass naturally with medication.
- Larger stones that do not pass can be treated with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (lying down while breaking them up with shock waves) or endoscopic removal (urology department).
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
Half of them relapse – water is the medicine.
- Drinking enough water to achieve a daily urine output of 2 liters or more is the most reliable way to prevent recurrence.
- A habit of eating salty foods can cause kidney stones - reduce consumption of soups and processed foods.
- Different types of kidney stones require avoiding different foods, so do not discard the stone that has been passed; instead, have it analyzed for its composition.
- Just because the pain is gone doesn't mean the stone has passed. If left blocked, the kidneys can be damaged, so a follow-up examination is essential.
Frequently asked questions
Does drinking beer cause kidney stones?
While it may have a temporary diuretic effect, it can actually be detrimental to preventing kidney stones due to dehydration and increased uric acid levels. The best solution is simply to drink plenty of water.
Should I reduce my calcium intake?
No, calcium consumed as part of a meal can actually help prevent kidney stones. However, please consult with a doctor before taking high-dose calcium supplements.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
Rules and costs can change. Before you make an important decision, check the official page for the latest information.