Stones, kidney

DEFINITION

Kidney stones are small, hard mineral deposits that form inside your kidneys. They are made of mineral and acid salts. These stones can develop anywhere in the urinary tract due to various reasons.

SYMPTOMS

• Severe pain in the side and back
• Pain spreading to lower abdomen and groin
• Painful urination
• Discolored urine
• Nausea, vomiting, fever
• Persistent need to urinate

CAUSES

Kidney stones form when urine contains more crystal-forming substances than can be diluted. Types include calcium stones, uric acid stones, struvite stones, and cystine stones.

RISK FACTORS

• Family history of kidney stones
• Dehydration
• Certain diets high in protein, sodium, or sugar
• Obesity
• Digestive diseases or surgeries
• Other medical conditions

PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

Before your appointment:

• Follow any instructions given by your doctor
• Note down symptoms and questions
• Keep track of fluid intake and output

TESTS AND DIAGNOSIS

Diagnostic tests may include blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans, and analysis of passed stones.

TREATMENTS AND DRUGS

Treatment varies based on stone type and size. It may include drinking water, pain relievers, medications to help pass the stone, or procedures like lithotripsy or surgery.

LIFESTYLE AND HOME REMEDIES

Prevention strategies may involve drinking enough water throughout the day, eating a balanced diet low in oxalate-rich foods and animal protein, and possibly taking medications to control mineral levels in urine.

QUESTIONS

1. Do kidney stones cause permanent damage?

Kidney stones usually cause no permanent damage.

2. What are the symptoms of kidney stones?

Symptoms include severe pain, discolored urine, nausea, vomiting, and fever.

3. What are the risk factors for developing kidney stones?

Risk factors include family history, dehydration, certain diets, obesity, and certain medical conditions.

4. How are kidney stones diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans.

5. What treatments are available for kidney stones?

Treatments range from drinking water and pain relievers to procedures like lithotripsy or surgery.

6. How can kidney stones be prevented?

Prevention strategies include staying hydrated, following a balanced diet low in oxalate-rich foods and animal protein.

7. What are the different types of kidney stones?

Types include calcium stones, uric acid stones, struvite stones, and cystine stones.

8. When should you see a doctor for kidney stone symptoms?

Seek immediate medical attention if you have severe pain accompanied by other symptoms like nausea or blood in urine.

9. Can kidney stones recur after treatment?

Yes, preventive measures may be needed to reduce the risk of recurrent kidney stones.

10. What lifestyle changes can help prevent kidney stones?

Drinking enough water daily, following a balanced diet low in oxalate-rich foods and animal protein can help prevent kidney stone formation.