Kidney stones in older adults are one of the most painful urinary tract conditions, affecting nearly one in 10 people during their lifetime. Seniors may face an increased risk due to dehydration, chronic conditions, medications, and dietary factors. Once you have had a kidney stone, you are more likely to develop another.
If you’ve ever experienced one, you know just how intense the pain can be. The good news is that kidney stones are treatable, and there are proven lifestyle adjustments that can help prevent kidney stones in older adults.
What Are Kidney Stones?
A kidney stone is a hard deposit made of minerals and acid salts that crystallize and stick together in concentrated urine. These mineral deposits can form in the kidneys or anywhere along the urinary tract, including the bladder, ureter, or urethra.
The size and type of kidney stone determine the severity of symptoms. Smaller kidney stones may pass naturally with minimal discomfort, while larger stones can cause severe pain, urinary blockage, infection, or require medical intervention.
Kidney stones form when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid to bind together and create crystals.
Types of Kidney Stones
There are four main types of kidney stones.
Calcium stones – The most common type, accounting for approximately 80 percent of cases. These include calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate stones and form when calcium levels in the urine are elevated.
Uric acid stones – The second most common type. These develop when urine becomes too acidic and are often associated with gout, diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.
Struvite stones - Composed of ammonium, magnesium, and phosphate salts. These typically develop after recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and can grow quickly.
Cystine stones – The rarest type. These result from a genetic condition that causes excess cystine (an amino acid) to leak into the urine.
Kidney Stones Symptoms in Older Adults
One of the first signs of a kidney stone is pain in the mid-back or side. However, kidney stones in older adults may not cause symptoms until the stone begins moving into the ureter — the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder.
When a stone becomes lodged in the ureter, it can block urine flow, causing the kidney to swell and the ureter to spasm. This results in intense, wave-like pain that may fluctuate in severity. Many people find it difficult to sit still or find a comfortable position.
Common kidney stone symptoms include:
- Intense pain in the lower abdomen, back, side, or groin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever and chills (may indicate infection)
- Pain or burning during urination
- Pink, red, or brown urine (blood in urine)
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Persistent urge to urinate
In seniors, symptoms may sometimes be mistaken for back pain, urinary tract infections, or gastrointestinal issues. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away for evaluation.
Kidney Stone Treatment Options
Most small kidney stones pass naturally within a few days to a couple of weeks. The time frame depends on the size and location of the stone.
Conservative Treatment
- Drinking 6–8 glasses of water daily to help flush the stone
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Prescription pain medication if needed
- Antibiotics if an infection is present
Medical Procedures for Larger Stones
If the stone does not pass naturally, medical intervention may be necessary.
Lithotripsy uses sound shock waves to break the kidney stone into smaller pieces so it can pass through the urinary tract.
Ureteroscopy involves inserting a thin scope through the urethra and bladder to locate and remove the stone using a small retrieval device.
In rare cases, surgical procedures may be required for very large stones.
Kidney Stone Prevention in Older Adults
Preventing kidney stones often comes down to hydration, nutrition, and managing underlying health conditions.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps dilute urine and prevent mineral buildup. Urine should be pale yellow, which indicates adequate hydration. Seniors are particularly vulnerable to dehydration, making this one of the most important preventive steps.
Reduce Sodium and Animal Protein
High sodium intake increases calcium in the urine, raising stone risk. Diets high in red meat and animal protein can increase uric acid levels. Choose lean proteins and plant-based options like legumes when possible.
Eat Adequate Calcium
Dietary calcium actually helps prevent kidney stones by binding to oxalate in the digestive tract before it reaches the kidneys. Speak with your provider before adjusting calcium intake, especially if you have heart or kidney disease.
Limit Oxalate-Rich Foods
If you form calcium oxalate stones, you may need to moderate foods such as spinach, beets, rhubarb, nuts, chocolate, tea, and soy products.
Who Is at Higher Risk for Kidney Stones?
Several factors increase the risk of kidney stones in older adults:
- History of previous kidney stones
- Dehydration
- Diabetes or metabolic syndrome
- Gout
- Obesity
- Certain medications
- Family history of kidney stones
Because chronic conditions are more common in seniors, discussing your risk factors with your primary care provider is essential.
When to See a Doctor for Kidney Stones
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Severe, unbearable pain
- Fever and chills
- Difficulty passing urine
- Blood in the urine
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
Early treatment can prevent complications such as infection or kidney damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kidney Stones in Older Adults
What do kidney stones feel like?
Kidney stones often cause sharp, cramping pain in the back or side that may move to the lower abdomen or groin. The pain typically comes in waves.
Can kidney stones go away on their own?
Yes, many small stones pass naturally with hydration and pain management. Larger stones may require medical procedures.
Are kidney stones more common in seniors?
Yes. Age-related dehydration, chronic health conditions, and certain medications can increase risk.
Protecting Your Kidney Health as You Age
Kidney stones can be extremely painful, but they are also preventable and treatable. While lifestyle changes significantly reduce risk, factors such as genetics, gender, and underlying medical conditions also play a role.
If you have concerns about kidney stones or are experiencing symptoms, schedule an appointment with a VIPcare provider to develop a personalized prevention and treatment plan.
