On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about kidney stones.
What are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are solid deposits that resemble gravel. They form in one or both kidneys due to the accumulation of high levels of certain minerals and salts in the urine. They may be located in the kidneys or the ureter (the tube connecting the kidneys and bladder). Kidney stones vary in size, shape, and color. They obstruct the flow of urine, causing severe pain or bleeding in the urine. If left untreated, they may lead to kidney infections or the loss of kidney function. Types of kidney stones include:
Calcium stones, which are the most common type.
Struvite stones often cause urinary tract infections.
Uric acid stones are typically caused by a high amount of acid in the urine.
Cystine stones, which are due to a hereditary disorder called cystinuria, leading to the leakage of the amino acid cystine through the kidneys into the urine.
What are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones?
Blood in urine (hematuria).
Pain on the side of the abdomen, lower abdomen, back, or groin.
Feeling fatigued.
Nausea.
Sweating.
Vomiting.
Fever.
Increased need to urinate.
Pain during urination.
Difficulty urinating or urinating in small amounts.
Foul-smelling urine.
What are the Causes of Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones occur due to increased levels of substances like calcium and phosphorus accumulating in the urine. Certain health conditions can elevate these chemical levels. The likelihood of developing kidney stones increases if you do not drink enough water and fluids. Risk factors for developing kidney stones include:
Gender: Men are more prone to kidney stones than women.
Family history: If you have a family history of kidney stones, you are at a higher risk of developing them.
Medical history: A previous history of kidney stones increases the risk of recurrence.
Insufficient fluid intake.
Having specific health issues, such as:
Obstruction of the urinary tract.
Chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
Cystic kidneys, which are diseases or disorders that cause fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys, such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD).
Gastrointestinal problems or previous gastric surgery.
Gout, a disorder causing painful swelling in the joints, occurs when uric acid accumulates in the body.
Hypercalciuria, hyperoxaluria, or hyperuricosuria.
Hyperparathyroidism, which can lead to increased calcium levels in the blood.
Obesity.
Urinary tract infections.
Renal tubular acidosis occurs when the kidneys are unable to excrete acids in the urine.
Certain medications, such as diuretics or water pills, or calcium-based antacids.
What are the Diagnostic Methods?
The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a physical examination and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
Laboratory tests.
Urine analysis.
Blood tests to check kidney function and measure calcium levels.
CT scan.
Ultrasound scan.
What are the Treatment Methods for Kidney Stones?
Treatment is tailored according to the situation and may involve the following:
Treating small stones by:
Drinking a large amount of fluids throughout the day.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help relieve pain.
Anti-nausea medication.
Alpha-blockers (medications that assist in passing stones).
Treating large stones:
If stones are large, surgical intervention may be required, and the main types of surgeries for removing kidney stones are:
Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL).
Ureteroscopy.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).
The type of surgery depends on the size and location of the stones.
How to Prevent Kidney Stones?
You can reduce the risk of kidney stones by following these guidelines:
Drink enough water.
Limit consumption of fizzy drinks.
Ensure to avoid and promptly treat urinary tract infections.
Reduce intake of animal proteins such as red meat, chicken, seafood, and eggs.
Decrease salt consumption.
What are the Complications of Kidney Stones?
If untreated, kidney stones can cause:
Blood in urine.
Severe pain.
Urinary tract infection and kidney inflammation.
Loss of kidney function.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you experience any signs or symptoms indicating kidney stones, such as:
Severe pain.
Fever.
Shivering episodes.
Blood in urine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sufficient amount of water that adults need?
Adults need about 3.2 liters to 2.2 liters of water per day.
Tips to help you drink water:
Ensure to carry a water bottle with you everywhere.
Avoid drinks containing sugar and caffeine.
Drink extra fluids when the weather is hot, when you're ill, and during exercise.
Does drinking parsley tea treat kidney stones?
No, it has not been scientifically proven that parsley tea is effective in treating kidney stones.
