How Do I Know If I Have Kidney Stones?
Posted on March 24, 2026 by root
Kidney stones are a common and often painful condition that can affect men of all ages. If you suddenly develop sharp back or side pain, you may wonder whether a kidney stone is the cause. At Justin Houman, MD, Men’s Health in Los Angeles, we provide advanced, personalized treatment for kidney stones and other urologic concerns.
Kidney stones form when minerals and salts in the urine crystallize and stick together. According to the National Kidney Foundation, about 1 in 10 people in the United States will experience a kidney stone in their lifetime. Men are more likely than women to develop stones, particularly between the ages of 30 and 50.
Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones
The symptoms of kidney stones can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Small stones may pass without causing significant discomfort, while larger stones can block urine flow and trigger intense pain.
Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain in the lower back or side
- Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen or groin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent or painful urination
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
The pain from kidney stones, often referred to as renal colic, can come in waves and may be severe enough to require emergency care.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones can develop for several reasons. Dehydration is one of the leading risk factors. When you do not drink enough fluids, urine becomes more concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize more easily.
Other risk factors include:
- High salt or high protein diets
- Obesity
- Family history of kidney stones
- Certain metabolic conditions
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
In warmer climates like Los Angeles, dehydration can be more common, especially during hot summer months, increasing stone risk.
What Is the Best Treatment for Kidney Stones?
The best treatment depends largely on the size of the stone and the severity of symptoms.
- Small stones (less than 5mm): Many small stones pass naturally with hydration and medication therapy. Increasing fluid intake helps flush the stone through the urinary tract. Medications may be prescribed to relax the ureter and reduce pain during passage.
- Medium stones (5mm to 2cm): Stones in this range may require procedural intervention. Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL) uses sound waves to break the stone into smaller fragments that can pass more easily. Laser Ureteroscopy involves inserting a small scope through the urinary tract to locate and fragment the stone with a laser. Both are minimally invasive options.
- Large stones (greater than 2cm): For larger stones, Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) may be recommended. This surgical procedure removes the stone through a small incision in the back. PCNL is highly effective for large or complex stones.
Expert, Personalized Care
Justin Houman is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Urologist and Men’s Health specialist dedicated to improving men’s quality of life. His approach combines state-of-the-art treatment with compassionate, individualized care. Whether you need conservative management or advanced surgical intervention, treatment is tailored to your specific condition and goals.
Early diagnosis and proper management can prevent complications such as infection, kidney damage, or recurrent stone formation.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones or have a history of recurrent stones, do not wait to seek care. Contact Justin Houman, MD, Men’s Health today to schedule a consultation. With expert evaluation and personalized treatment, relief and long-term prevention are within reach.