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I was just wondering what causes kidney stones and how common are they? My boss at work (male) just had them blasted and he was passing them throughout the day yesterday, and he was telling me about how much pain he was in. He also has a stent in place and was telling me how much that sucks.

I worry about everything and now I'm hoping that this never happens to me. (I'm female, and only 18 years old, but I'm just thinking ahead).

Is it worse for male or female or about the same? What exactly does the stent do, and is it neccessary? Thanks!

Hi, I have had stones twice in my life and it was about ten years apart. Stones are very painful. One of my stones had to be removed by surgry because it was doing a lot of damage. There was a stent put in at that time. The stent was put in to help with spasms in the unirary tract from the removal of the stone. Sulphur is know to cause stones, so I avoid anything with sulphur. Where I live the water is really hard and there is a high rate of kindeny stones. I have not had stones in years, this is due to the grace of God and cranberry pills help alot