Kidney Stones: Understanding the Condition
Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can cause severe pain and may require surgical intervention to remove.
Types of Kidney stones
- Calcium stones
- Uric acid stones
- Struvite stones
- Cystine stones
Symptoms
- Severe pain in the back or side
- Pain during urination
- Blood in urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent urge to urinate
Diagnosis
- Urine tests
- Blood tests
- Imaging tests (CT scan, ultrasound, X-ray)
- Analysis of passed stones
Treatment
- Pain relief medications
- Drinking water to help pass stones
- Medical procedures (lithotripsy, ureteroscopy)
- Surgery (for large stones)
Risk Factors
- Dehydration
- Diet high in salt, protein, or sugar
- Obesity
- Certain medical conditions (e.g., gout)
Importance of Timely Treatment
Early treatment prevents complications such as urinary tract infections or kidney damage.