Can children get kidney stones?

Can children get kidney stones?

Yes, children can get kidney stones, although they are less common than in adults. A kidney stone is a hard lump made from minerals and salts that can form in the kidneys or urinary tract.

In the UK, doctors are seeing kidney stones more often in children than they did in the past. This may be linked to diet, hydration, and some medical conditions.

What causes kidney stones in children?

Kidney stones can happen when urine becomes too concentrated. This can allow minerals such as calcium, oxalate, or uric acid to join together and form a stone.

Children are more likely to develop stones if they do not drink enough fluids. A diet high in salt, certain inherited conditions, and some medicines can also increase the risk.

Sometimes an underlying health problem is involved, such as a urinary tract abnormality or a condition that affects how the body processes minerals. In some children, there is no clear cause.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Some children may have severe pain, while others may not notice anything at first.

Common signs include pain in the side, back, tummy, or groin. A child may also feel sick, vomit, or have blood in their urine.

Other symptoms can include pain when passing urine, needing to urinate more often, or fever if there is an infection. Fever with pain needs urgent medical attention.

How are kidney stones diagnosed?

A GP or hospital doctor will usually ask about symptoms and examine the child. They may also ask about fluid intake, diet, family history, and any previous kidney or urinary problems.

Tests often include a urine sample and blood tests. An ultrasound scan is commonly used in children in the UK because it does not involve radiation.

In some cases, other scans may be needed to confirm the diagnosis or check for complications. The doctor may also look for the cause to help prevent stones returning.

How are they treated?

Small kidney stones may pass on their own with plenty of fluids and pain relief. The child may need to strain their urine so the stone can be checked.

Larger stones may need treatment in hospital. Options can include medicine to help the stone pass, shock wave treatment, or a small procedure to remove it.

If there is an infection, antibiotics may be needed as well. Treatment depends on the child’s age, the size of the stone, and how unwell they are.

When should you seek help?

Seek medical advice if your child has severe pain, blood in their urine, or pain when passing urine. It is also important to get help if they are vomiting, dehydrated, or unable to drink.

Call 999 or go to A&E if your child has severe pain with fever, looks very unwell, or cannot pass urine. These can be signs of a serious problem.

If you are unsure, contact your GP, NHS 111, or a local urgent care service for advice. Early assessment can help prevent complications.