Kidney stones are intensely painful and can affect people of all ages. While they tend to develop silently over time, their symptoms can appear suddenly, typically as severe back or side pain, blood in the urine, or persistent nausea. Though dehydration is a leading cause, certain diets, medications, and underlying health conditions can all play a role in stone formation.

On this episode of the Healthier You Podcast, Dr. Ashlee Williams talks with Dr. Nwamaka Fadahunsi, a board-certified urologist at Kaiser Permanente, to explore what causes kidney stones, how they’re diagnosed and treated, and how to prevent them. Dr. Fadahunsi breaks down which lifestyle factors matter most, from hydration and diet to understanding high-oxalate foods and the myths around calcium. She also outlines the treatment options available today, including pain relief strategies, noninvasive procedures like shock wave therapy, and how to manage recurring stones through long-term changes. 

Learn more about Nwamaka Fadahunsi, MD