It is very helpful to keep any stones that are passed for analysis. Some stones between 5-9mm will pass but larger stones need special treatment. All the treatments for removing kidney stones need to be done in a specialist centre. Most kidney stones can be seen on an X-ray of the lower end of the abdomen. These tests involve X-rays and are best avoided if you are pregnant.
Some kidney stones show up on an ultrasound scan.
These tests will help decide if the pain has been caused by a kidney stone. Certain tests are then needed to find out why you have formed a stone. This is particularly important if you have had more than one stone. You will need a series of blood tests and urine tests. These tests will measure substances in the blood and urine which if present in excessive amounts makes you more at risk of forming a kidney stone.