Kidneys are one of the vital organs of our body and they perform a number of critical functions. Healthy and effective functioning of the kidneys is vital for overall health and quality of life. However, sometimes the functions of the kidneys may deteriorate and problems such as kidney stones may occur. Kidney stones are hard clusters that form as a result of the accumulation and crystallization of minerals in the kidneys.
What is kidney stone?
Kidney stones are hard masses formed as a result of crystallization and accumulation of minerals and salts in the kidneys. These stones can cause different symptoms depending on their size and cause severe pain in the urinary tract. We can answer the question of what causes kidney stones as follows:
The formation of kidney stones usually begins when urine becomes concentrated and minerals precipitate and crystallize. Substances such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid and phosphate are the most common components that cause stone formation. Other important factors such as inadequate fluid intake, high salt and protein intake, some medications, and some medical conditions may also be effective in the formation of kidney stones.
What are the symptoms of kidney stones?
The most common symptom of kidney stones is lower back, side or abdominal pain that starts suddenly and fluctuates in intensity. Pain may change as the stone moves into the urinary tract. Kidney stone symptoms are as follows:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- painful urination
- Frequent need to urinate
- Fever and chills (in the presence of infection)
How is kidney stone treated?
To the question of how kidney stones pass, we can first say this:
Kidney stones usually pass spontaneously and are excreted in the urine, but large stones or stones that cause obstruction in the urinary tract may require surgical intervention. Kidney stone treatment options include medications, increased water consumption, a low sodium diet, and sometimes breaking up the stones with laser or ultrasound waves. We can answer the question of how to pass kidney stones as follows:
- Shock wave therapy can be performed for kidney stones smaller than 1 cm.
- Ureterorenoscopy method can be used for stones larger than 1 cm.
- For stones larger than 2 cm, percutaneous nephrolithotomy method can be used.
- In rare cases, surgery may be required.
If the size of the kidney stone is small and not dangerous, the easy way to pass the kidney stone is to drink plenty of water and move. Physical activity can encourage kidney stones to progress through the urinary tract.
Are kidney stones dangerous?
Although kidney stones are not always dangerous, in some cases they can lead to serious health problems. Kidney stones can be dangerous if the stone is large in size. In addition, stones can block the urinary tract and damage the kidneys, urinary tract and bladder, which is dangerous in this respect. Kidney stones can be more dangerous in people with certain health problems such as diabetes, hypertension or heart disease.
Where does kidney stone cause pain?
Kidney stone pain varies depending on the stone’s location in the kidney and its movement in the urinary tract. Kidney stones most commonly cause pain in:
- Back area (lower back, pain under the ribs)
- abdominal area
- Anus and genital area (Burning, stinging or sharp pain)
- groin area