Kidney Stones

Understanding Kidney Stones

What are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can vary in size and may cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract. Kidney stones can develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. If left untreated, kidney stones can lead to complications such as infections or kidney damage.

Causes of Kidney Stones

Several factors contribute to the formation of kidney stones, including:

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water leads to highly concentrated urine, increasing the risk of stone formation.

• Diet: High consumption of sodium, oxalate-rich foods, or animal proteins can contribute to kidney stone development.

• Genetics: Family history of kidney stones increases the likelihood of developing them.

• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, urinary tract infections, and obesity can increase the risk.

• Medications: Some drugs, including diuretics and calcium-based antacids, may promote kidney stone formation.

Risk Factors for Kidney Stones

Individuals at higher risk of developing kidney stones include those who:

• Have a family history of kidney stones

• Consume a high-sodium or high-protein diet

• Are frequently dehydrated

• Have metabolic disorders that affect urine composition

• Take certain medications that increase stone formation risk

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Common signs include:

• Severe pain in the lower back, side, or lower abdomen

• Painful urination

• Blood in urine (hematuria)

• Frequent and urgent need to urinate

• Nausea and vomiting

• Fever and chills (if an infection is present)

Diagnosis and Treatment of Kidney Stones at Vibhavadi Hospital

Comprehensive Diagnosis

At Vibhavadi Hospital, our team of specialists uses advanced diagnostic tools to detect kidney stones and assess their severity. These include:

1. Laboratory Tests

• Urinalysis: Identifies blood, infection, or crystals in the urine.

• Blood Tests: Measures calcium, uric acid, and kidney function markers to assess stone risk factors.

2. Imaging Studies

• Ultrasound: A non-invasive method to detect stones in the kidney and urinary tract.

• CT Scan: Provides detailed imaging to determine the size and location of kidney stones.

• X-rays: Used in certain cases to identify larger stones.

Treatment Options for Kidney Stones

The treatment approach depends on the size, location, and composition of the kidney stones. At Vibhavadi Hospital, we offer:

1. Conservative Management

• Increased Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to help flush out small stones.

• Pain Management: Medications such as NSAIDs or opioids to relieve pain.

• Medical Expulsion Therapy: Alpha-blockers to help relax the ureter and facilitate stone passage.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): High-energy sound waves break the stones into smaller fragments for easier passage.

• Ureteroscopy with Laser Lithotripsy: A small scope is used to locate and break up stones with a laser.

3. Surgical Intervention (If Necessary)

• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A procedure to remove large kidney stones through a small incision.

• Open Surgery (Rare Cases): Used for exceptionally large or complex stones.