Blog Post

A sudden, sharp pain in your back, side, or lower abdomen can be a terrifying experience, often pointing to a common but highly painful condition. 

Kidney stones are hard, pebble-like deposits of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys and cause intense discomfort as they travel through your urinary tract.

At Houston Medical ER, our experienced medical team provides 24/7 emergency care for patients experiencing these severe symptoms. 

We understand how disruptive and overwhelming this pain can be, which is why we offer rapid diagnostics and treatment to help you find relief without the long wait times of a traditional hospital emergency room.

What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones develop when your urine contains more crystal-forming substances, like calcium and oxalate, than the fluid in your system can dilute. When the minerals clump together, they form solid masses that can block the flow of urine and cause severe pressure. 

An analysis of data between 2017 and 2020 showed that nearly 10% of American adults had experienced kidney stones at some point in their life, with the prevalence among women showing a significant upward trend.

If you're struggling with intense pain, nausea, or vomiting from a stone, our team can administer fast-acting medications and IV infusions to restore your hydration and manage your symptoms effectively.

How to treat kidney stones

Treatment for kidney stones depends entirely on the size of the stone, its location, and the severity of your symptoms. While small stones often pass on their own with plenty of fluids and pain medication, larger stones can block your urinary tract and require immediate medical intervention.

For larger or more complicated stones, we use specialized procedures to break up or safely remove the blockage. Individuals who successfully pass or remove a kidney stone face up to a 75% chance of developing another stone during their lifetime, making ongoing care essential.

Preventing future kidney stones

Preventing kidney stones starts with understanding what you put into your body and how your kidneys process those nutrients. A common misconception is that you should avoid dietary calcium to prevent stones from forming in your system.

But research shows that consuming calcium-rich foods actually reduces your risk because dietary calcium binds to oxalate in your intestines before it ever reaches your kidneys. Drinking plenty of water and staying active are also effective ways to keep your kidneys clear and functioning well.

If you suspect you're passing a kidney stone, you don't have to suffer through the pain alone. Our freestanding emergency rooms in Houston and Spring, Texas, are open around the clock to provide immediate, compassionate care. 

Please visit our website to learn more and contact us or visit either our locations for prompt medical evaluation and relief today.