Kidney Stones: Understanding the Condition and How to Manage It
March 29, 2023
6 min read
If you've ever experienced the pain of a kidney stone, you know how uncomfortable and inconvenient this condition can be. Luckily, knowledge is power! By understanding what kidney stones are, why they form, and how to prevent them, you can take steps toward avoiding these pesky stones.
Don't let kidney stones stand in your way - get the facts you need to stay informed and healthy!
Kidney Stones: What It Is?
Kidney stones, also called renal calculi, are hard accumulations of minerals and salts that develop inside the kidneys. These deposits build up over time and can become very large, sometimes as big as a golf ball.
If these stones stay within the kidney and do not pass through the urinary tract, they can cause severe pain and other health problems such as infection or kidney damage.
Kidney Stones: Types
Kidney stones can be made from different substances, so they're classified based on what they're made of. The four main types are:
1. Calcium Stones
These are the most common type of kidney stones. They're usually formed when calcium combines with either oxalate or phosphate, most often made of calcium oxalate.
2. Uric Acid Stones
These stones happen when there's too much acid in the urine, which causes uric acid to form crystals and eventually become a stone. Those with gout are more likely to develop this type of stone.
3. Struvite Stones
These stones often form as a result of an infection, when bacteria enter the urinary tract and create conditions conducive to stone formation. Struvite stones are made of magnesium and ammonium phosphate, and they grow quickly and can be quite large.
4. Cystine Stones
This type of kidney stone is rare and is caused by an inherited disorder. Cystine stones form when there is an excess of the amino acid cystine in urine, which can lead to crystal formation.
Kidney Stones: Causes
The causes of kidney stones vary but are typically related to an imbalance in the body's fluids and minerals. Common causes include:
Not drinking enough fluids leads to dehydration and reduced urine output. Eating too high of certain minerals, such as calcium and oxalate. Having an underlying medical condition that affects the ability of the kidneys to process minerals properly. These include cystinuria, hypercalciuria, and primary hyperoxaluria. Certain medications can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.
Kidney Stones: Symptoms
Kidney stones are a very uncomfortable experience, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some of the common signs and symptoms that might indicate you have kidney stones include:
Intense pain in your lower back or side Pain in your ground or lower abdomen Difficulty urinating
Other signs may include:
Nausea and vomiting Blood in your urine Frequent urination An urge to urinate often, even when your bladder isn't full Cloudy or foul-smelling urine Chills and fever (if you have an infection)
It is vital to seek medical attention immediately if you encounter any of these symptoms. Your healthcare provider will be able to determine if kidney stones are the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Kidney Stones: Diagnosis
Kidney stones are typically diagnosed through imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds. Additionally, the doctor may use urinalysis to look for signs of a kidney stone in the urine.
Blood tests may be performed to measure levels of minerals and electrolytes in the body that can indicate the presence of a kidney stone.
Kidney Stones: Treatment Options
Treating kidney stones depends on the type of stone, so collecting and evaluating them from strained urine is essential.
Drinking six to eight glasses a day can help increase urine flow for those who are dehydrated or suffer severe nausea/vomiting - in these cases, IV fluids might be necessary.
The treatment recommended for kidney stones depends also depends on the size. Smaller stones can often pass through the urinary tract without intervention, while larger stones may require surgery or other medical interventions.
Other treatment options include:
Medications
Pain relief from kidney stones can be attained through the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen. In some instances, prescription medications may be used to break up the stone or even dissolve it entirely.
Shock Wave Lithotripsy
This innovative procedure uses sound waves to break up large stones so they can be more easily passed through the ureters into your bladder.
Although it's a safe and efficient method for treating kidney or gallstones, it may cause minor discomfort needing light anesthesia plus bruising on the abdomen/back due to shock wave impact surrounding organ areas.
Ureteroscopy
Ureteroscopy is a common and minimally invasive procedure. After inserting the tube-like tool (ureteroscope), your doctor will use a camera to look inside your ureter to identify and remove the stone.
When the stone is too big to be removed entirely, it can typically be fragmented using laser energy. This helps reduce the size of the stone so that it can pass out of your body more easily.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy is a minimally-invasive procedure used to treat large kidney stones. During the procedure, small incisions are made in the patient's back, and a special instrument known as a nephroscope is inserted into the kidney.
Kidney Stones: Prevention Tips
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent them. Knowing the causes of kidney stones can help you take proactive steps to avoid them in the future.
Here are a few of the most effective tactics for avoiding kidney stones:
Stay Hydrated
The best way to prevent kidney stones is to make sure you stay hydrated by drinking enough water each day. It is suggested that most people drink at least eight glasses of water per day; however, if you live in a hot or dry climate, you may need more than that.
This will flush out any excess minerals or acids that could lead to kidney stone formation. If you're having trouble drinking the recommended amount of water every day, try adding lemon or lime slices to your water—it makes it easier (and tastier!) to drink more throughout the day.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet is also important for reducing your risk of developing kidney stones. Foods rich in calcium, like dairy products and leafy green vegetables, can help keep your calcium levels at an optimal level.
Eating lots of fruit and veggies can help flush toxins from your body, minimizing inflammation linked to kidney stones. Avoiding processed foods and white sugar is also recommended, as these contain additives and preservatives, which can increase your risk of developing stones.
Exercise Regularly and Maintain a Healthy Weight
Getting regular exercise is another great way to maintain healthy kidneys and reduce your risk of developing kidney stones. Exercise helps move the blood around in the body, which helps flush out toxins from the kidneys more quickly. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day—anything from brisk walking to jogging will do the trick!
Reduce Your Sodium Intake
Too much sodium can increase the amount of calcium in urine, which can lead to kidney stones. It's recommended that adults consume no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.
Reduce Your Risk of Kidney Stones
Ultimately, knowledge is power. Knowing the risks, symptoms, and treatment options available can help you better understand kidney stones. It's important to note that if you suspect you may have a kidney stone, it's necessary to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Don't sit back in pain; speak with your doctor about your fears and watch out for any sign of distress that may be pointing to a potential stone.
When you know what to watch out for, you can maintain control over your healthcare decisions and ensure that yours is in the best possible condition!
