Kidney Stones
Also known as: Renal Calculi, Nephrolithiasis, Urolithiasis
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys when urine becomes concentrated. They can cause excruciating pain when passing through the urinary tract. Recurrence is common — about 50% of people will develop another stone within 5–7 years. Most small stones pass on their own, but larger stones may require intervention.
Symptoms
Causes
- High concentrations of calcium, oxalate, uric acid, or cystine in urine
- Insufficient fluid intake
- Dietary factors (high sodium, high protein, high oxalate foods)
- Metabolic conditions (hyperparathyroidism, renal tubular acidosis)
- Urinary tract infections (struvite stones)
Risk Factors
- Personal or family history of kidney stones
- Dehydration and low fluid intake
- High-sodium, high-protein diet
- Obesity
- Digestive diseases affecting calcium absorption
- Male sex
Diagnosis
- Non-contrast CT scan (gold standard)
- Urinalysis for blood, crystals, and infection
- Blood tests for calcium, uric acid, and kidney function
- 24-hour urine collection for metabolic evaluation
- Ultrasound (preferred for pregnant women and children)
Treatment
- Hydration and pain management for small stones (<5mm)
- Medical expulsive therapy (tamsulosin)
- Shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for medium stones
- Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy for ureteral stones
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy for large or complex stones
- Dietary and medical prevention based on stone composition
Prevention
- Drink enough water to produce at least 2.5 liters of urine daily
- Limit sodium to less than 2,300 mg per day
- Consume adequate dietary calcium (do not restrict)
- Limit animal protein and high-oxalate foods if prone to stones
When to See a Doctor
- Severe pain that prevents sitting still
- Pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, or chills
- You notice blood in your urine
- Difficulty urinating or very little urine output
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
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