Kidney stones are hardened deposits composed of minerals and salts. While they form in the kidneys, they can make their way throughout the urinary tract, such as the ureters (small tubes that take urine from the kidneys) and bladder. Kidney stones are not usually dangerous and do not often cause long-term damage. However, they can be extremely painful, which calls for timely medical intervention.
Kidney stone symptoms typically present when the stone begins to move around the kidneys and urinary tract. When this happens, you may experience:
As the stone makes its way around the urinary tract, the above symptoms may become more or less intense. Complications are unlikely, but serious infections may occur without treatment. A stone can also block urine to the bladder and cause swelling.
Kidney stones have no single verifiable cause, but they are associated with a few risk factors. Lack of sufficient water intake can lead to dehydration, which then increases your risk of experiencing kidney stones. Diets high in protein and salt can also increase risk, as can being obese and carrying most of your weight within the midsection. Other risk factors include:
Most doctors prefer a conservative approach when symptoms are mild to moderate. This can entail drinking lots of water to help pass the stone through the urinary tract. Over-the-counter pain relievers are also beneficial for relieving discomfort.
When stones are larger or symptoms are more severe, doctors can use several treatment methods. A special device can direct sound waves towards the stone to break it into smaller pieces. Traditional surgery can also be used to remove the stone from the urinary tract. In this case, doctors use lighted scopes and small tools to find the stone and break it up.
For people with recurring kidney stones, lifestyle changes can help you avoid them. In addition to increasing your water intake, cutting back on food containing oxalates (which contribute to calcium oxalate stones) can help prevent their formation. Reducing salt and protein intake is also beneficial.