Ureteral Stones

Overview

Ureteral stones are kidney stones that have moved into the ureter. They form when minerals in the urine crystallize in the kidney and can block the ureter, obstructing urine flow and causing severe flank pain that may radiate to the lower abdomen or groin.

Symptoms

• Flank and abdominal colic
• Hematuria
• Nausea and vomiting
• Urinary frequency
• Painful urination

Treatment

Small stones may pass with increased fluids and medication, while larger stones require extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or ureteroscopic removal.

Dietary advice

Drink large amounts of water and reduce intake of high-oxalate, high-salt, and high-purine foods.