Kidney stones start when minerals and other substances in over concentrated urine form crystals on your kidneys. These crystals can combine to form small, hard masses, or stones. Most kidney stones pass into your bladder without causing any permanent damage, but some cause excruciating pain, while others need surgery. Kidney stones can be dated back to the age of the Egyptian pyramids, and they are still a common disorder today. In fact, over the years, there have been more and more incidences of kidney stones.

You can have kidney stones without experiencing symptoms. If you do have signs, it probably means that there is a blockage. Here are some of the common symptoms: • Intense pain that can vary in intensity over periods of five to 15 minutes. • Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine • Nausea and vomiting • Persistent urge to urinate • Fever and chills Causes There are a lot of factors that can cause kidney stones, including: • Heredity • Lifestyle factors • Medical conditions • Diet • Drugs • Climate