Kidney stones are small, hard deposits made of minerals and acid salts. In many cases, the stones form when urine becomes concentrated, which allows the minerals and salts to stick together. While passing kidney stones can be painful, the stones typically leave no damage behind.

• A diet high in protein, sodium, and sugar
• Dehydration
• Digestive diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome
• Family or previous personal history of kidney stones
• Obesity
• Undergoing gastric bypass

Treatment for kidney stones varies depending on the type of stone and its cause. However, the majority of kidney stones do not require invasive treatment. Smaller stones may be passed by drinking water or by taking pain relievers or prescribed medications.