
Kidneys are silent multitaskers, filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating vital bodily functions. These bean-shaped organs are indispensable in maintaining overall health, yet many take them for granted. One of the most common and painful reminders of kidney health is the development of kidney stones. What causes them, and how can you prevent or treat them effectively?
Kidney Stones: An Overview
Kidney stones, small but mighty in their impact, can disrupt daily life with excruciating discomfort. The stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that develop when calcium, oxalate, phosphate and uric acid become concentrated in the urine, crystalize, and bind together. Other kidney stones include struvite, which forms after a urinary tract infection (UTI), and cystine, which results from a genetic disorder called cystinuria. These stones can range from grains to larger ones obstructing the urinary tract.
Kidney stones affect 11% of men and 6% of women in the country at least once during their lifetimes, often stemming from diet, hydration habits, lifestyle, or underlying medical conditions. The symptoms vary but commonly include the following:
Severe, sharp pain in the back or side, radiating to the lower abdomen and groin
Blood in the urine (hematuria), giving it a pink, red, or brown color
Frequent urge to urinate or painful urination
Nausea and vomiting
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Fever and chills, especially if an infection is present
A Doctor’s Guide to Kidney Health
Kidney stones are both an indication of your current kidney health and a risk factor for future complications. They signify a build-up of waste products that the kidneys can no longer filter out and excrete through the urine, possibly leading to more severe urinary tract and kidney infections, chronic kidney disease, or even kidney failure without prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Healthcare professionals explore the inner workings of kidney health by unraveling the mystery of kidney stones. A diagnosis may involve a CT scan from the kidneys to the bladder or a Kidney-Ureter-Bladder (KUB) x-ray or Ultrasound of the kidneys and/ or bladder.
After confirming the diagnosis, your doctor will determine the most appropriate treatment based on stone size and location, blood and urine test results, and medical circumstances. Post-treatment, they can analyze the stone once it passes from your body to pinpoint the cause and create an individualized plan to prevent future stones from forming.
Follow-up testing is essential to monitor the effectiveness of dietary and medical interventions in reducing your risk of future kidney stones.
We will reassess your condition after implementing any changes to ensure they are successfully lowering your risk and to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Preventing Kidney Stones
While kidney stones are common, lowering the chances of having them is possible. One of the most effective kidney stone prevention tips is staying well-hydrated; drinking enough water throughout the day helps dilute the substances in urine that can form stones.
Another critical step is reducing sodium intake. Instead of processed or salty foods, focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Contrary to the popular belief, dairy intake is not associated with increased kidney stone risk- your doctor can further discuss this at the visit. Regular physical activity also aids in promoting a healthy weight and improving overall metabolism. Finally, follow up with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations, especially if you have a history of stones.
When You Need Urology Intervention for Kidney Stones
Knowing how to treat kidney stones can make you feel more at ease if you ever develop them. Small kidney stones often pass naturally through the urinary tract without pain. However, medical intervention may be necessary for larger or more stubborn stones. One standard method is shock-wave lithotripsy, a non-invasive procedure that leverages sound waves to break the stones into smaller fragments.
If stones are too large or located in problematic areas, surgical options such as ureteroscopy or percutaneous nephrolithotomy may be the best course of action. These procedures involve removing or breaking the stones using specialized instruments inserted through the urinary tract or small incisions. Doctors also might prescribe drugs to relieve pain and relax the ureter muscles.
Final Thoughts
Understanding kidney stones empowers you to take control of your kidney health. Hydrate, eat healthily, and exercise, and you should be safe from this health issue. For those already affected, timely treatment and lifestyle changes will help you manage and stop recurrence.
If you are concerned about kidney stones or want expert advice on how to avoid developing them, Hypertension and Kidney Health is here to help. Our team offers personalized care, ensuring your kidneys stay healthy and functioning at their best. Call us today at (610) 510-7152 or schedule an appointment online!
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