Kidney stones are solid salt and mineral deposits that develop in the urinary tract or kidneys. They can come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and as they pass through the urinary system, they can be very painful and uncomfortable. Intense back or side discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and blood in the urine are all typical signs of kidney stones.
How common are kidney stones?
A little over one in ten people may experience Kidney Stones at some point in their lives, making them a relatively common medical problem. It appears that kidney stones are becoming more common over the world, maybe as a result of dietary and lifestyle changes. Kidney stones are more common in males than in women, and the risk of kidney stones rises with age. A family history of kidney stones, specific medical problems like obesity and diabetes, and some drugs that might alter the balance of minerals in the urine are additional risk factors for kidney stones.
Symptoms of kidney stones.
The symptoms of kidney stones can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Some people with kidney stones may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may experience severe pain and discomfort. Common symptoms of kidney stones include:
- Painful urination.
- Blood in the urine.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Needing to urinate more frequently or urgently than usual.
- Urine that smells bad or looks cloudy.
- Fever or chills (which can indicate an infection).
Causes of kidney stones.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can cause the urine to become concentrated, making it easier for minerals and salts to crystallize and form stones.
Diet: A diet high in sodium, animal protein, and sugar can increase the risk of kidney stones. Foods high in oxalates, such as spinach, rhubarb, and chocolate, can also increase the risk of calcium oxalate stones.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism, gout, and inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of kidney stones.
Genetics: A family history of kidney stones can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Urinary tract blockages: Anything that blocks the flow of urine, such as an enlarged prostate or kidney stones themselves, can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.
Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics and calcium-based antacids, can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
Types of kidney stones.
Calcium stones: These are the most common type of kidney stone, and are made up of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate. They can form when there is an excess of calcium and other minerals in the urine.
Uric acid stones: These stones form when there is too much uric acid in the urine. They are more common in people with gout or other medical conditions that increase the production of uric acid.
Struvite stones: These stones are made up of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate. They can form in people with urinary tract infections, as the bacteria in the urinary tract can produce the chemicals that form the stones.
Cystine stones: These stones are made up of cystine, an amino acid that is found in urine. They can form in people with a genetic disorder that causes cystine to build up in the urine.
Diagnosis.
Urine tests: These tests can help determine if there is an excess of minerals or other substances in the urine that may be contributing to stone formation.
Blood tests: Blood tests can help identify any underlying medical conditions that may be causing kidney stones.
Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans, can help identify the size, location, and number of kidney stones. These tests can also help determine if there are any blockages in the urinary tract.
Analysis of passed stones: If a patient is able to pass a kidney stone, the stone can be analyzed in a laboratory to determine its composition.
Risk factors.
Family history: People with a family history of kidney stones are more likely to develop them.
Age and gender: Men are more likely to develop kidney stones than women, and the risk increases with age.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can increase the risk of kidney stones, as it can lead to more concentrated urine and a greater likelihood of mineral buildup.
Diet: A diet high in salt, animal protein, and sugar can increase the risk of kidney stones, as can a diet low in calcium.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of kidney stones.
Urinary tract abnormalities: People with abnormalities in the urinary tract, such as blockages or narrow passages, are more likely to develop kidney stones.
Certain medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics and calcium-based antacids, can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
Treatment.
Pain management: Pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be prescribed to help manage pain and discomfort.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush the stones out of the urinary tract and prevent new ones from forming.
Medications to help pass the stone: Certain medications, such as alpha-blockers, can help relax the muscles in the urinary tract and facilitate the passage of stones.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): This procedure uses shock waves to break up larger stones into smaller pieces that can be passed more easily.
Ureteroscopy: This procedure involves the use of a small scope that is inserted into the urinary tract to remove the stone or break it up using a laser.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: This procedure involves the use of a small incision in the back to remove larger stones.
