Can kidney stones be detected by x-Ray?

Hi,

could anyone please tell me if kidney stones can be seen on a xray?
I have had severe lower back pain for 8 months now. There seems to be a "lump" in my lower back, on the left hand side (not in the centre of my spine). It seems to flare up every now and again with a lot of pain. I've been wanting to have my back x-rayed for ages now, as I'd like to find out what this painful "lump" is...but medical aid is not on my side. someone suggested it may be kidney stones....?? if it is, then it's the size of a small golf ball and it freaks me out that it has to exit somehow....ouch!!!!

If it WAS to be kidney stones....does anyone know how to disolve them before they come out? Pain threshold is NOT very high...

THANK YOU for any help offered...

x x x Tweet