What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. These stones can vary in size, and while some stay in the kidney without causing issues, others may travel down the ureter (the tube between the kidney and bladder). If a stone becomes lodged in the ureter, it blocks urine flow and causes intense pain.
Symptoms of kidney stones
Many kidney stones are asymptomatic and may go undiagnosed. However, the common symptoms include:
- Sharp, cramping pain in the back or side, which may radiate to the lower abdomen or groin
- Intense urge to urinate
- Frequent urination or a burning sensation while urinating
- Dark or red urine, possibly due to blood
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain at the tip of the penis (in men)
Causes of kidney stones
Kidney stones form when the urine contains high levels of dissolved minerals and salts. The main causes include:
- Low Urine Volume: Concentrated urine increases the risk of stone formation.
- Diet: High intake of animal protein (beef, fish, chicken, pork) can raise acid levels, promoting stone formation.
- Bowel Conditions: Certain conditions can increase the risk of forming calcium oxalate stones.
- Obesity: Obesity may alter urine acid levels, increasing stone risk.
- Medications: Some medications, as well as calcium and vitamin C supplements, can contribute to stone formation.
- Family History: Genetics plays a role in increasing your risk of developing kidney stones.
Diagnosis of kidney stones
Kidney stones are commonly diagnosed through:
- X-rays
- Ultrasound
- CT scans
These imaging techniques help detect the size and location of the stone.
Treatment Options for Kidney Stones
Treatment varies depending on the type, location, and severity of the stone, as well as the symptoms:
- Conservative Management: Smaller stones can often pass on their own. You may be advised to wait for the stone to pass naturally, which can take 4 to 6 weeks. Drink plenty of fluids and take pain medications like ibuprofen during this time.
- Medications: Medications can help relax the ureter, easing the passage of stones.
- Surgery: Surgery may be recommended for larger or problematic stones. Surgical options include:
- Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL): High-energy shock waves break the stone into smaller pieces, which can then be passed out in the urine. The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis, with a quick recovery.
- Ureteroscopy (URS): A small telescope (ureteroscope) is inserted into the ureter to locate and remove the stone. Larger stones may be broken into smaller pieces using a laser.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): This procedure is used for large kidney stones. A small incision is made in the back or side, and a nephroscope is used to remove the stone. It requires general anaesthesia.
- Other Surgical Options: If other methods fail, open surgery, laparoscopic, or robotic surgery may be considered.
How to prevent kidney stones
While there is no universal diet for preventing kidney stones, making the following changes can help reduce the risk:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
- Reduce Salt Intake: Lowering your sodium intake can help prevent stone formation.
- Eat More Fruits and Vegetables: A plant-based diet can help reduce the risk of stones.
- Limit Oxalate-Rich Foods: Foods high in oxalate (like spinach, beets, and nuts) should be eaten in moderation.
- Eat Less Meat: Reducing animal protein intake can help lower the risk of stone formation.
- Maintain Proper Calcium Intake: Get the recommended amount of calcium through food, not supplements.