Kidney Stones
Overview
Kidney stones are solid formations made of minerals and salts that develop within the kidneys due to various reasons such as diet, obesity, underlying medical conditions, and certain medications. These stones can affect any part of the urinary tract and are formed when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to combine and stick together. While passing kidney stones can be very painful, timely recognition can prevent permanent damage. Treatment options include pain relief medication and drinking lots of water, while surgery may be necessary in severe cases. To prevent recurrence, preventative treatment such as changes in diet and medication may be recommended by a healthcare professional. It’s important to seek m
Symptoms
Intense pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
Nausea and vomiting
Painful urination
Blood in the urine
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Urinating more often than usual
Treatments
Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms. Small stones may pass on their own through urine, while larger stones may require medical intervention. Treatment options may include:
- Pain medication to relieve symptoms
- Drinking plenty of water to help flush out the stone
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up the stone into smaller pieces
- Ureteroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera to remove the stone from the urinary tract
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), a surgical procedure that removes the stone through a small incision in the back
Preventing kidney stones involves staying hydrated and avoiding foods that are high in oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, and nuts. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly to prevent the formation of stones.
Kidney stones are solid masses that form in the kidneys from substances such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Painful urination
- Blood in the urine
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
