While both kidney stones and gallbladder stones involve the formation of hard, stone-like substances in the body, these are two strikingly different health conditions. The main difference between the two is where they form and what they’re made of.

Kidney stones are form in the kidneys, which are part of the urinary system. These stones are generally made of minerals– like calcium or uric acid– as they build up in the urine when it becomes too concentrated due to dehydration, poor diet, or genetics. These stones can move into the urinary tract, and lead to intense pain in the back, sides, or lower abdomen and even cause issues with urination.

Gallbladder stones, or gallstones, are form in the gallbladder— which is a small organ under the liver and it helps in digesting fats. These stones are generally made of cholesterol or bilirubin. Over time, gallstones can block the flow of bile and hence causes pain in the upper right abdomen. This usually happens after eating fatty meals, along with symptoms like nausea or bloating.