Urolithiasis, also known as urinary stone disease, is a condition in which stones form in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or other parts of the urinary tract. These stones develop from substances present in urine when conditions promote their crystallization and accumulation.
Small stones may cause no symptoms. If a stone moves or obstructs urine flow, symptoms may include severe pain in the side, lower back, lower abdomen, or groin, blood in the urine, nausea, and difficulty urinating. Risk factors include insufficient fluid intake, dietary habits, genetic predisposition, certain metabolic disorders, and urinary tract diseases.