5mm Kidney Stone: What You Need to Know

Kidney stones are more common than you might think. If you've recently been diagnosed with a 5mm kidney stone, you're probably wondering what it means, what to expect, and how to deal with it. Don’t worry you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll break everything down in simple, easy-to-understand language.

What Is a Kidney Stone?

A kidney stone is a small, hard deposit made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can vary in size, some are tiny like a grain of sand, while others can be as large as a golf ball.

A 5mm kidney stone is about the size of a pencil eraser. While it may seem small, it can still cause a lot of pain depending on where it’s located and whether it tries to pass through your urinary tract.

What are the different types of Kidney Stones?

• Calcium Stones: Most common; usually calcium oxalate.
• Uric Acid Stones: Often related to high-protein diets, dehydration, or metabolic conditions.
• Struvite Stones: Associated with urinary tract infections.
• Cystine Stones: Rare, caused by genetic disorders

Is a 5mm Kidney Stone Considered Big?

In medical terms, a 5mm stone is considered moderate in size. While it’s not the smallest, it’s also not the largest. The good news is that stones up to 5mm in size often pass on their own, though it may take some time and discomfort.

• Smaller than 5mm: Usually pass on their own (70-90% of the time)
• Around 5mm: May pass naturally (50-60% success)
• Larger than 6mm: Often need medical intervention

Where Is the Kidney Stone Located?

The location of the kidney stone plays a big role in how it’s managed.

• In the kidney: May not cause pain and can be monitored
• In the ureter (tube connecting kidney to bladder): More likely to cause pain and blockage
• Near the bladder: More likely to pass naturally

Common Symptoms:

Even a 5mm stone can be painful. Here are some symptoms you might experience:

• Severe lower back or side pain
• Pain during urination
• Blood in the urine (pink or reddish urine)
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever and chills (may indicate infection)

If you have a fever with kidney stone symptoms, seek medical help immediately — it could be a sign of a serious infection.

Can a 5mm Kidney Stone Pass on Its Own?

Yes many 5mm stones pass naturally, especially if they are closer to the bladder. However, it depends on:

• Your hydration level (drinking more water helps)
• Your body type and anatomy
• The exact location and shape of the stone

Doctors usually give it a few weeks to pass, as long as there are no signs of infection, severe blockage, or unbearable pain.

How to Diagnose Kidney Stones?

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Physical Examination and Medical History: To assess symptoms and risk factors.
• Urinalysis: Detects blood, crystals, or infection.
• Blood Tests: Checks kidney function and levels of stone-forming substances.
• Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan (most accurate), or X-ray to locate and measure the stone

What are the Treatment Options for Kidney Stones?

If the stone doesn’t pass on its own or causes complications, your doctor might recommend one of the following:

1. Medications

• Tamsulosin (Flomax): Helps relax muscles in the urinary tract, making it easier for the stone to pass.
• Pain relievers: NSAIDs or stronger medications for pain control.

2. Increased Fluid Intake

• Drinking 2.5 to 3 liters of water per day helps flush out the stone.

3. Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery  (RIR’s)

• RIRS, or Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat kidney stones.

4. Supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy (supine PCNL) 

• Supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy (supine PCNL) is a method for removing kidney stones where the patient is positioned on their back, as opposed to the more traditional prone (face down) position

5. Surgery

• Rare for a 5mm stone but may be needed if all else fails or complications arise.

The Home Remedies you can try?

While home remedies won’t "cure" a stone, some people try natural aids to help pass the stone:

 1. Lemon Juice and Olive Oil Mix: Sometimes recommended but not scientifically proven

2. Stay Active: Gentle movement can help the stone move

3. Avoid High-Oxalate Foods: Like spinach, beets, and nuts (especially if you're prone to stones)

To prevent future stones, here are some key tips:

4. Stay Hydrated (most important!)

5. Reduce Salt Intake

6. Eat More Calcium-Rich Foods (counterintuitively, calcium binds oxalates and prevents stones)

7. Limit Animal Protein

8. Avoid Sugary Drinks and Soda

When to See a Doctor

You should contact a doctor if:

• Pain is severe or worsening
• You can't urinate
• You notice fever or chills
• There's visible blood in your urine
• You’re not sure if the stone has passed

What Happens After It Passes?

You may be asked to collect the stone (by urinating through a strainer) so it can be analyzed in a lab. This helps determine the type of stone and prevent future episodes.

Final Thoughts

A 5mm kidney stone can be a painful but manageable experience. The majority of people pass these stones naturally with proper hydration, pain management, and time. Still, medical support is crucial to make sure things don't take a dangerous turn.

Always consult your doctor, and remember  drinking more water is your best defense against kidney stones!

If you or your loved one is going through a pain For expert & free consultation, diagnosis, and advanced kidney stone treatment options like RIRS, URS, PCNL and Supine PCNL, we visit MASSH Hospital – A trusted name in pain less & quick minimally invasive urology care with advanced technology and experienced specialists.

FAQs

1. Is a 5mm kidney stone dangerous?

While not usually life-threatening, a 5mm stone can be painful and cause blockages. If left untreated, it may lead to infections or kidney damage. Prompt evaluation by a urologist is key.

2. How long does it take for a 5mm stone to pass?

On average, it may take a few days to a few weeks to pass. The exact time depends on its location, shape, and your hydration level.

3. Can I treat a 5mm kidney stone at home?

Yes, many people pass these stones naturally with increased water intake, mild pain relievers, and physical activity. However, regular monitoring by a urologist is essential.

4. Will I need surgery for a 5mm kidney stone?

Most 5mm stones do not require surgery. But if the stone is stuck or causing severe symptoms, minimally invasive procedures like RIRS may be recommended — available at MASSH Hospital.

5. What foods should I avoid with a kidney stone?

Limit oxalate-rich foods (like spinach, beets, nuts), sodium, and animal proteins. Avoid sugary sodas and stay well hydrated.

6. How do I know if the stone has passed?

You'll notice pain relief, increased urine flow, and possibly see the stone in your urine. Doctors may ask you to strain your urine to catch it for lab analysis.

7. Is drinking lemon water helpful for kidney stones?

Lemon juice contains citrate, which may help prevent certain stones. It’s not a cure, but adding it to your hydration routine could help, especially alongside medical advice.

8. What’s the best way to prevent future kidney stones?

• Drink 2.5–3 liters of water daily
• Eat a balanced, low-sodium diet
• Don’t over-restrict calcium
• Get regular checkups if you’ve had stones before

9. Are 5mm stones more common in certain people?

Yes. People with a family history, low fluid intake, high-protein diets, or certain metabolic conditions are at higher risk.

10. Where should I go for specialized kidney stone care in Delhi NCR?

MASSH Hospital is a trusted destination for kidney stone treatment. Their urology team offers Free consultation, advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive procedures like RIRS and PCNL for more effective and patient-friendly care.