What is a Kidney Stone?

A kidney stone is a solid piece of material that forms in the kidney. Stones can vary in size from tiny sand-like particles to stones larger than a golf ball. Most kidney stones are made up of calcium oxalate, which is a combination of calcium and oxalate, a natural substance found in food and drink.

Some other types of stones include:

• Struvite stones: Made up of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate.
• Uric acid stones: Made up of uric acid, a substance that is produced when the body breaks down protein.
• Cystine stones: Made up of the amino acid cystine.

What Causes Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones form when there is a decrease in the amount of water in the urine and an increase in the concentration of substances that can form stones. This can happen when:

• Not enough fluids are drunk each day
• There is not enough potassium in the diet
• Urinary tract infections increase the concentration of minerals in the urine
• Certain medications, such as diuretics, can reduce the amount of water in the urine
• The body produces too much oxalate, a substance that can form stones. This is more common in people with certain medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease and gout.
• People who have had a kidney transplant are at risk for stones because of the medications they must take to prevent rejection of the transplanted kidney.

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Stones?

The symptoms of a kidney stone can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Some people may not have any symptoms. The most common symptoms are:

• Pain in the back, side, or groin
• Frequent and painful urination
• Blood in the urine
• Nausea and vomiting
• An uncomfortable feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen

How Are Kidney Stones Diagnosed?

If you have symptoms of a kidney stone, your doctor will ask about your medical history and perform a physical examination. He or she may also order some tests, including:

• Urine test: To check for the presence of blood or crystals that can indicate the presence of stones.
• Blood test: To check for calcium and other minerals in the blood that can be associated with stones.
• Kidney ultrasound: A test that uses sound waves to create an image of the kidneys.CT scan: A type of x-ray that can detect stones in the kidneys and urinary tract.

How Are Kidney Stones Treated?

Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stone, as well as your symptoms. Treatment may include:

• Drinking fluids: To help flush the stone out of the urinary tract.
• Pain medication: To relieve pain.
• Antibiotics: If a urinary tract infection is present.
• Ureteral stent: A thin tube that is inserted into the ureter to help the flow of urine and to relieve pain.
• Surgery: If the stone is too large to pass or is causing a blockage.

What Can I Do to Prevent Kidney Stones?

There are several things you can do to help prevent kidney stones, including:

• Drinking fluids: Drink plenty of fluids each day, especially water.
• Limiting the amount of salt in your diet: High-salt diets can increase the risk of kidney stones.
• Limiting the amount of animal protein in your diet: Animal protein can increase the level of uric acid in the urine, which can lead to stones.
• Getting enough potassium: Potassium can help reduce the risk of stones. Foods rich in potassium include bananas, oranges, and potatoes.
• Reducing the amount of oxalate in your diet: Oxalate can increase the risk of stones. Foods high in oxalate include nuts, chocolate, and spinach.
• Avoiding beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol: These beverages can increase the risk of stones.
• Quitting smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of stones.
• See your doctor if you have a family history of kidney stones: Some people are more at risk for developing kidney stones than others. Your doctor can help you find out if you are at risk and what you can do to reduce your risk.

Conclusion

Kidney stones are small, hard objects that form in the kidneys. They can cause pain and other symptoms. Treatment depends on the size and location of the stone, as well as your symptoms. Some people may need surgery to remove the stone. There are several things you can do to help prevent kidney stones. Be sure to seek medical attention if you feel you have signs of a kidney stone.

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