Sharp pain in your back or side can be hard to ignore, especially when it comes in waves and makes it difficult to get comfortable. You may also notice nausea, pressure, or changes in urination that seem to get worse without warning.
If you’re asking “how long does it take to pass a kidney stone,” the answer depends mostly on the size of the stone and where it’s located in the urinary tract. Some small stones pass within a few days, while others can take several weeks or may need treatment to help them pass safely.
Understanding what affects the timeline can help you know what to expect and when it may be time to seek medical care.
What Affects How Long It Takes to Pass a Kidney Stone?
Kidney stones form when minerals and other substances in the urine become too concentrated and stick together. Over time, they harden into a stone.
The amount of time it takes to pass a kidney stone depends mostly on:
- The size of the stone
- Where it’s located
- Whether it’s blocking urine flow
Smaller stones are more likely to pass on their own. Stones under about 5 millimeters often pass without a procedure, although it can still take days or weeks.
Location also matters. A stone may stay in the kidney for some time without causing symptoms. Once it moves into the ureter, the narrow tube connecting the kidney and bladder, pain often becomes more severe.
Even small stones can block urine flow and cause significant discomfort.
Several factors may increase the risk of kidney stones, including:
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Higher levels of calcium, oxalate, or uric acid in the urine
- Certain dietary patterns
- Family history
- Some medical conditions
What Does Kidney Stone Pain Feel Like?
Kidney stone symptoms often become more noticeable once the stone starts moving through the urinary tract.
Pain is usually the most intense symptom. Many people describe it as sharp, severe, and coming in waves. The pain often starts in the back or side and may move toward the lower abdomen or groin as the stone travels.
You may also experience:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Blood in the urine
- A frequent urge to urinate
- Burning with urination
- Difficulty getting comfortable
Symptoms may change as the stone moves through the urinary tract. Pain may come and go instead of staying constant.
When Should You See a Urologist for a Kidney Stone?
Some kidney stones pass without complications. But others can block urine flow, increase infection risk, or cause ongoing pain.
You should seek medical care if you have:
- Severe pain
- Fever or chills
- Vomiting that won’t stop
- Difficulty urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Symptoms that aren’t improving
An evaluation can help determine whether the stone is likely to pass on its own or if treatment may be needed.
How Long Does It Take to Pass a Kidney Stone in Lake Barrington, Elgin, Crystal Lake, or Hoffman Estates?
If you’re still wondering “how long does it take to pass a kidney stone,” the timeline can vary from person to person. Smaller stones may pass fairly quickly. Larger stones can take longer or may need treatment to prevent complications.
Severe pain, fever, vomiting, difficulty urinating, or symptoms that don’t improve should not be ignored. An evaluation can help determine whether the stone is likely to pass on its own or if treatment may be the safer option.
If you’re dealing with kidney stone symptoms in Lake Barrington, Elgin, Crystal Lake, or Hoffman Estates, our team can help identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend the right treatment plan. Call today to schedule an appointment.