Kidney stones: What you need to know when pain starts

Many kidney stones develop without causing any symptoms. However, the situation can suddenly change: severe, wave-like flank pain, nausea, and marked restlessness may set in.
When a stone moves from the kidney into the narrow ureter, it can partially or completely block the flow of urine. As a result, pressure in the renal pelvis rises rapidly. This pressure leads to significant stretching of the sensitive wall structures and activates pain receptors. At the same time, the ureter attempts to push the stone forward through strong, wave-like muscular contractions. These so-called colic contractions are particularly painful because they occur in a cramp-like and rhythmic pattern.

Dr. med. Daniel Seiler

11. May 2026

Do I need surgery?

Not every kidney stone requires surgery—but some do

One of the most important questions in urology is: Can the stone pass on its own—or not?

Small stones can often be passed spontaneously in the urine. In these cases, pain management and adequate fluid intake are sufficient.

However, problems arise when:

  • the stone is too large
  • the ureter is blocked
  • the kidney is congested
  • There is severe, persistent pain

In such cases, urological intervention is necessary to prevent complications.

Learn more about the diagnostic process for kidney stones

Modern treatment today is gentle and precise

The good news: Today’s stone treatment is minimally invasive in most cases. Depending on the situation, the following procedures are available:

  • Ureteroscopy: endoscopic removal via the urinary tract
  • Laser therapy: targeted stone fragmentation
  • Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): Fragmentation from outside the body without surgery
  • Ureteral stent: Relief for drainage problems

Why timing is crucial

If detected early, many cases can be treated conservatively or with minimally invasive procedures. However, waiting too long can cause the following damage:

  • Kidney damage
  • Infections
  • Persistent colic

Prevention is a key component

After the acute phase, the cause is crucial. New stones can often be prevented by:

  • adequate fluid intake
  • an appropriate diet
  • Reducing salt and animal protein
  • Metabolic evaluation for recurrent stones

A targeted urological evaluation is particularly worthwhile in cases of recurrent kidney stones.

Surgical Treatment with Dr. Seiler

When surgical removal of kidney stones is necessary, Dr. Seiler offers ureteroscopic stone removal (URS).

URS is a minimally invasive procedure in which the stone is removed through the natural urinary tract—without any external incisions.

Advantages of ureteroscopic stone treatment:

  • Direct and precise stone removal
  • Very high success rate
  • Short recovery time
  • No external wounds

Severe kidney pain? Early diagnosis prevents complications

We rely on modern urological diagnostics and minimally invasive treatment methods to provide you with rapid relief and ensure the best possible care.

At our practice in Zurich, experience, precision, and personalized care are our top priorities.

Schedule your appointment now for a personalized urological evaluation.

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