Kidney stones are small mineral deposits that form in the kidneys. They often form when the urine becomes concentrated and the minerals crystallize and bond. These stones can be very painful as they pass through the urinary tract.

You may not realize you have kidney stones until you experience any of these symptoms:

• Severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs
• Pain that spreads to the lower abdomen and groin
• Pain that comes in waves and fluxuates in intensity
• Pain on urination
• Pink, red or brown urine
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Nausea and vomiting
• Persistent need to urinate
• Urinating more often than usual
• Fever and chills if an infection is present
• Urinating small amounts of urine
• Change in location of pain in the body as the kidney stone travels

More than half a million people visit emergency rooms for kidney stones each year. According to the National Kidney Foundation, one in ten Americans will have a kidney stone during his or her lifetime.

Dr. Karyn Eilber discusses causes, prevention, and treatment of kidney stones.