Kidney stone pain can come on fast and feel overwhelming. When it hits, one of the first questions people ask is how long does it take to pass a kidney stone?
The answer can vary based on the size and location of the stone, along with your overall health. If you’re dealing with symptoms of a kidney stone, understanding what to expect can help you decide when it’s okay to wait and when to seek care.
What Types of Kidney Stones Are There?
Kidney stones are grouped based on what they’re made of.
Calcium stones are the most common and are usually made of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate. Risk factors include:
- Dehydration
- Certain foods
- Digestive conditions
- Some underlying medical disorders
Uric acid stones form when urine stays too acidic. This allows uric acid to form crystals instead of dissolving. These stones are more common in people with:
- Gout
- Metabolic conditions
- Chronic dehydration
- Diets high in animal protein
Struvite stones are typically linked to urinary tract infections caused by certain bacteria. They can form quickly and grow quite large.
Cystine stones are rare and occur in people with a genetic condition called cystinuria. This condition causes excess cystine, a natural amino acid, to spill into the urine. It can then form crystals and turn into stones.
What Affects How Long it Takes to Pass a Kidney Stone?
Kidney stones don’t all follow the same pattern. How long it takes depends on:
- Stone size: The size of the stone matters more than any other factor. Smaller stones are more likely to move through the urinary tract on their own, while larger stones may get stuck or cause a blockage.
- Stone location: Stones that are still in the kidney may take longer to pass than those that have already moved lower into the ureter.
- Anatomy: The ureter is a narrow, muscular tube, and its width, curves, and muscle tone can affect how easily a stone clears the urinary tract.
- Hydration level: Drinking enough fluids helps urine flow and may support stone passage.
- Medications: Taking medicines that relax the ureter may improve passage time.
How Long Does it Take to Pass a Kidney Stone?
The time it takes for a kidney stone to pass depends mostly on how big it is.
Small kidney stones (5 mm or less)
Small kidney stones are most likely to pass on their own. In fact, a large percentage do so naturally without intervention or surgery.
Many clear the urinary tract within a few weeks. But some may take up to 4 to 6 weeks. Hydration, pain control, and close monitoring are important during this time. Even though these stones are small, they can still cause significant pain as they move through the ureter.
Medium kidney stones (5 to 10 mm)
Stones in this size range are less predictable. While some may pass on their own, others can become stuck. Because they are larger, clearing the urinary tract often takes several weeks.
Doctors may monitor progress closely and use medications to improve the likelihood. Waiting may no longer be advised if:
- Pain becomes severe
- The stone stops moving
- Signs of infection appear
In these situations, treatment to remove the stone may be recommended.
Large kidney stones (over 10 mm)
Large stones are unlikely to pass on their own. They often need treatment or minimally invasive procedures, such as:
- Shock wave lithotripsy, which breaks the stone into smaller pieces
- Ureteroscopy, where instruments are used to remove or break up the stone
With larger stones, waiting can increase the risk of complications such as:
- Blockage
- Infection
- Kidney damage
Is it Safe to Wait for a Kidney Stone to Pass?
In some cases, it’s okay to wait. But if the pain gets worse, you develop a fever, your urine output drops, or symptoms aren’t improving, it’s time to call your doctor.
How Long Does it Take to Pass a Kidney Stone? When to Seek Care
How long does it take to pass a kidney stone? The timeline isn’t always predictable. Some stones pass on their own, while others may need medical treatment to prevent complications and relieve pain.
If your symptoms aren’t improving or you’re not sure what to do next, it’s best to get checked. We understand what you’re going through. We’ll listen to your concerns, figure out what’s causing your symptoms, and create a treatment plan that actually works.
If you’re in Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, or Conway, help is close to home. We offer same-day kidney stone treatment. Call 843.347.2450 to schedule an appointment and start feeling like yourself again.