Understanding Kidney Stones

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain when they pass through the urinary tract. They can vary in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball and may develop due to a variety of factors.

Causes of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can form when certain substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, become concentrated and crystallize. Factors that may increase the risk of developing kidney stones include:

• Dehydration or inadequate fluid intake
• High levels of calcium, oxalate, or uric acid in the urine
• Family history of kidney stones
• Obesity or a high body mass index (BMI)
• Diet high in sodium, sugar, or protein
• Medical conditions such as gout, urinary tract infections, or certain metabolic disorders
• Use of certain medications or supplements
• Underlying anatomical abnormalities in the urinary tract

Symptoms

Kidney stones may not cause any symptoms until they begin to move within the urinary tract. Common symptoms of kidney stones may include:

• Severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
• Painful urination
• Blood in the urine
• Frequent urination or urgency
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever or chills (if an infection is present)
• Difficulty passing urine

Treatment

Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms. Common treatment options may include:

• Drinking plenty of fluids to help flush out the stone
• Pain relief medications to alleviate discomfort
• Medications to help relax the muscles of the urinary tract and facilitate stone passage
• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break up larger stones into smaller fragments
• Surgical procedures such as ureteroscopy or percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) to remove larger stones
• Preventive measures such as dietary modifications, increased fluid intake, and medications to prevent stone recurrence