Kidney Stones Disease Information

Kidney stones are solid masses made up of minerals and acid salts that form inside the kidneys. They are caused by an abundance of certain substances in the urine, including calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. The size of kidney stones can range from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Signs of kidney stones may include severe pain in the lower back or side, pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin, nausea, vomiting, and blood in the urine. Other symptoms may include fever, chills, and burning while urinating. Treatment of kidney stones is dependent on the size and type of stone. Smaller stones may pass on their own, while larger stones may require medical intervention. Treatment may involve shock wave lithotripsy, which uses sound waves to break up the stones, or ureteroscopy, which involves inserting a slim tube into the ureter to extract the stones. Surgery may also be necessary to remove large stones. To prevent kidney stones from forming, lifestyle changes should be made. These changes include drinking plenty of fluids, consuming a balanced diet, and avoiding certain foods high in oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, and chocolate. Regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of kidney stones.

1. Calcium Oxalate Stones: These are the most common type of kidney stones, accounting for about 80 percent of all kidney stones. They form when calcium combines with oxalate, a naturally occurring substance found in food.
2. Uric Acid Stones: Uric acid stones are caused by too much acid in the urine. They are more common in people who don’t drink enough fluids or who eat a diet high in purines, which are found in certain foods, such as organ meats and anchovies.
3. Struvite Stones: Struvite stones are caused by certain types of urinary tract infections. They are made of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate and can grow very large.
4. Cystine Stones: Cystine stones are caused by a genetic disorder that causes the kidneys to excrete too much of certain amino acids. They are rare and can be difficult to treat.
5. Calcium Phosphate Stones: These stones are caused when the urine is too alkaline. They are more common in people who have certain medical conditions, such as renal tubular acidosis.

1. Pain in the side and back, below the ribs
2. Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin
3. Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
4. Nausea and vomiting
5. Pink, red, or brown colored urine
6. Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
7. Urinating more often than usual
8. Urinating small amounts
9. Difficulty urinating
10. Persistent urge to urinate
11. Fever and chills
12. Painful urination
13. Urine that appears cloudy or has a strong odor
14. Blood in the urine (hematuria)
15. Abdominal or flank pain

The diagnosis of kidney stones can be identified through a physical examination, urine analysis, imaging studies, and blood tests. Physical Examination: Your doctor may do a physical assessment to search for pain and soreness in the area of your abdomen or side, which could signify the existence of a kidney stone. Urine Analysis: A urine analysis may be done to look for the presence of red blood cells, white blood cells, and bacteria in your urine, which could show the presence of a kidney stone. Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as an X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, or intravenous pyelogram (IVP) may be used to detect kidney stones and to determine their size and location. Blood Tests: Blood tests may be used to measure the levels of certain substances in your blood, such as calcium and uric acid, which can point to the presence of a kidney stone.

Kidney stones are usually caused by dehydration, an unequal amount of minerals in the pee, and a medical issue, like gout or urinary tract infection. Other possible causes may include certain drugs, a family history of kidney stones, and particular dietary practices.

1. Kidney stones are generally treated with one of the following approaches:
2. Medications: Medicines, such as diuretics, may be employed to break up and pass small stones.
3. Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL): SWL uses shock waves to split stones into smaller fragments that can move through the urinary tract.
4. Ureteroscopy: This method requires a tiny scope to be inserted into the urethra and bladder and then advanced up to the kidney to locate and take out the stone.
5. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): This process involves making a minor cut in the back to access the kidney and remove the stone.
6. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): ESWL is similar to SWL, but it employs higher intensity shock waves to disintegrate bigger stones.
7. Open surgery: In some cases, open surgery may be necessary to extract the stone.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is the best way to stop kidney stones. Try for at least 8-10 cups of water daily to help flush out the stones. Avoid Certain Foods: Certain foods can raise your chances of forming kidney stones. Refrain from foods that are high in oxalates such as spinach, rhubarb, beets, and nuts. Also, limit your intake of animal proteins, sodium, and sugar. Increase Your Intake of Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons contain citrate, which can help stop kidney stones from forming. Exercise Regularly: Exercise can help lower your risk of developing kidney stones. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as walking, jogging, or biking, at least 5 days a week. Take Supplements: Certain supplements, such as magnesium and vitamin B6, can help reduce your risk of developing kidney stones. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements. See Your Doctor Regularly: Regular visits to your doctor can help to detect any changes in your health and can help you to prevent kidney stones from occurring.