Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. They can cause severe pain and discomfort and, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage or infection. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, tests, and treatments for kidney stones.
What Exactly Is A Kidney Stone?
A kidney stone is a solid, pebble-like object that can develop in either one kidney or both. Diverse wastes are dissolved in urine. Typically, the kidneys, the body's filter, remove these waste products. Crystals may start to form when the urine is very concentrated or when there is too much waste in too little liquid. The crystals are joined by other substances (such as calcium, oxalate, urate, cystine, xanthine, and phosphate) to form a solid. If this portion is not eliminated by the body's urine, it ends up becoming larger.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of kidney stones is severe pain in the back, sides, or abdomen. The pain can be sharp, stabbing, or throbbing and may come in waves. Other signs of kidney stones include:
- Painful or frequent urination
- Blood in the urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills (if there is an infection)
Kidney Stone Tests
If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following kidney stone tests to confirm the diagnosis:
Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds can all show the presence of kidney stones.
Blood tests: These can be used to detect elevated levels of certain substances that are associated with kidney stones.
Urine tests: These can detect the presence of blood, minerals, and other substances that may indicate the presence of kidney stones.
Treatments
The kidney stone treatment depends on the size and location of the stones, as well as the severity of your symptoms. Some of the most common treatments include:
Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and discomfort. If the pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication.
Drinking water: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out the kidneys and prevent the formation of new stones. It can also help pass smaller stones more easily.
Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help dissolve the stones or to prevent the formation of new stones. These may include potassium citrate, allopurinol, or thiazide diuretics.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This is a non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up the kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be passed more easily.
Ureteroscopy: This is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a small scope into the urethra and using a laser to break up the stones.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): This is a surgical procedure that involves making a small incision in the back and using a scope to remove the stones.
Also Read: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Symptoms, Causes and Tests
Prevention
There are several things you can do to prevent the formation of kidney stones, including:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Eating a balanced diet that is low in sodium and animal protein
- Avoiding foods and drinks that are high in oxalate, such as chocolate, spinach, and tea
- Taking medications as prescribed to prevent the formation of new stones
Getting a regular kidney stone check-up to monitor your kidney function and detect any potential problems early.
In conclusion, kidney stones can cause severe pain and discomfort, but they can be effectively treated with a variety of approaches depending on the size and location of the stones. If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney stones, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
