Kidney Stones: are hard masses made of acid salt and minerals that form in your kidneys when the urine becomes concentrated, the minerals then crystallize and begin sticking together. Most kidney stones will pass on their own but it is a severely painful process.
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Symptoms:
You may not have any symptoms until the stones begin to move down the ureters, in which the urine empties in to your bladder nearly blocking the flow of urine out of the kidneys. The main symptom is severe pain that starts and stops very suddenly.
Other symptoms may include:
- Pain in the stomach, back, and side
- Painful urination
- Persistent urges to urinate
- fever and chills (if an infection is present).
Causes:
Kidney stones form when your urine has more crystalized substances that include calcium, oxalate, and uric acid than what the urine can dilute. Thus, causing the stones to formulate.
When to see the doctor:
See your doctor if you have any of the symptoms listed above and you think you may be at risk. Especially if you are experiencing severe pain, nausea, bloody urination, or difficulty urinating.
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Potential Risks:
Factors that increase your risk of developing kidney stones include family history, being an adult, being a male, dehydration, certain diets, and more.
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Tests & Healthcare:
Some tests for kidney stones include:
- Blood testing
- Urine testing
- Image testing (where they may X-ray your abdomen or inject the veins with dye to watch how they pass through the kidneys and bladder)
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Treatment:
Most kidney stones don’t require invasive action. Typically you can pass your kidney stones by drinking enough water for them to flush out themselves. Depending on its severity, your doctor may prescribe medication or pain killers to help the process and the pain.
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Complications:
There are possible complications of obstruction of the ureter. Although in most cases, there is usually no real long lasting damage to the body.
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Prevention:
The prevention of kidney stones is usually based on your lifestyle. The most important thing to remember is to drink water throughout each day. Maintain a diet that is low in salt and animal proteins. If you tend to form calcium oxalate stones your doctor may restrict certain foods from your diet that are rich in oxalates.
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Preparing for your Appointment:
Be sure to see a doctor who specializes in the urinary tract (urologist). Make a list of symptoms you may be having and write down any medications you are on and be prepared to share this information with your doctor.
Click Here to Book an Appointment with an Urologist.
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Online References:
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/wp/medlineplus/ency/article/000458.htm