Several investigations are commonly used to diagnose kidney stones and evaluate their severity. These include:

Medical History and Physical Examination: Your doctor will likely ask about your symptoms, medical history, and conduct a physical examination to assess for signs of kidney stones.

Imaging Tests:

Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging test uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys and urinary tract. It can help detect the presence of kidney stones and determine their size and location.

CT Scan: A computed tomography (CT) scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. It's highly effective in diagnosing kidney stones and can accurately identify their size, location, and composition.

X-ray: X-rays can detect some types of kidney stones, particularly those composed of calcium, but may not be as effective for other types.

Urinalysis: A urine test can help identify the presence of blood, crystals, or other substances that may indicate the presence of kidney stones or an underlying urinary tract infection.

Blood Tests: Blood tests may be performed to assess kidney function and identify any abnormalities, such as elevated levels of certain minerals that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones.

24-hour Urine Collection: In some cases, your doctor may ask you to collect urine over a 24-hour period to measure levels of various substances that can contribute to kidney stone formation, such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and citrate.

These investigations help in confirming the presence of kidney stones, determining their size and composition, evaluating kidney function, and guiding treatment decisions. Your healthcare provider will determine which tests are most appropriate based on your symptoms and medical history.