Are all kidney stones painful?

Look, if the stone is just sitting inside the kidney, you won't feel a thing. But once it shifts and blocks your urine flow, the pain is unbearable and will send you straight to the emergency room. Drink plenty of water and don't wait for the pain to start before seeing a doctor.

Please don't make the mistake I did. I had mild, dull back pain and ignored it thinking it was just a muscle pull, until a silent stone blocked my ureter and caused severe infection. Even if there is no sharp pain, get an ultrasound done if you suspect anything.

They aren't always painful, some are discovered accidentally during routine ultrasounds. If you have silent stones, it is a warning to watch your diet. Reduce spinach, tomatoes, and excess salt, and make sure you drink at least three liters of water daily.

I totally get it, the fear of kidney stone pain can be really terrifying. But rest assured, many people have small stones that pass out naturally in urine without causing any major pain at all. Just keep drinking water and consult a urologist for peace of mind.

I have had three kidney stones in my lifetime. The first two passed out with absolutely zero pain, I didn't even realize they were there until they were gone. Only the third one caused trouble. So don't worry, every stone doesn't mean a painful crisis.