Kidney and ureteric stones
Have you ever felt a sharp pain in your side that just won't quit? It might be a kidney stone, a tiny mineral crystal that may be causing a problem. But don't worry, you're not alone! Let's explore everything you need to know about kidney stones, from recognizing the signs to taking charge of your health.
Could I have a kidney stone?
Kidney stones are sneaky little things, often showing no signs until they start causing trouble. Here are some clues to watch out for:
Intense pain in your side or back, below your ribs.
Pain that travels down to your lower belly and groin.
Painful urination.
Pink, red, or brown urine.
Feeling nauseous or like you need to throw up.
A frequent and urgent need to pee or urinary tract infections
If you experience any of these, it's important to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and discuss potential treatment options.
What causes kidney?
Kidney stones form when your pee has too much of certain minerals, like calcium and oxalate, and not enough liquid to dissolve them. Forming kidney stones is likely dependent on several factors including your fluid intake, diet, daily activities and genetics (kidney stones tend to run in families).
Here are some things that can increase your risk:
Not drinking enough fluids.
Eating a diet high in salt, animal protein, and oxalates, or low in calcium.
Carrying extra weight.
Certain medical conditions and medications.
How do I find out if I have kidney stones?
To confirm if you have a kidney stone, your doctor might suggest:
Blood tests to check for kidney function and certain mineral levels (calcium and urate)
Urine tests to see if your body is making too much of the stone-forming minerals.
Imaging tests like CT scans, X-rays or ultrasounds to see the stones.
Analyzing passed stones to understand their composition (most stones are calcium oxalate kidney stones)
Treatment Options: Finding What Works for You
The good news is, that there are different ways to deal with kidney stones, depending on their size, location, and your situation. Some common treatments include:
Drinking more water to prevent future stones from forming and current ones getting bigger.
Pain medication to manage discomfort.
Extracoporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL): a procedure using sound waves outside the body whilst you are awake to break the stone into smaller pieces.
Surgery might be needed in severe cases to remove the stone, particularly if the stones are blocking the tubes draining the kidneys (ureters) or the kidney stones are large or causing pain.
Preventing kidney stones
The best way to deal with kidney stones is to prevent them in the first place. Here are some tips:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for at least 2.5 litres.
Eat a balanced diet low in salt (switch to low-sodium salt alternatives e.g. Lo Salt, and eat less processed food)
Eat a low animal protein diet.
Make sure you get enough calcium in your diet.
Stay active and maintain a healthy weight.
When should you see your doctor?
If you suspect you have a kidney stone, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and recommend the best course of action. This is especially important if you're experiencing severe pain, blood in your urine, or difficulty passing urine.
Personalized care
Everyone's experience with kidney stones is unique, and influenced by their health and lifestyle. This is why seeking personalized advice from a healthcare professional is crucial. They can provide tailored recommendations and treatment options specific to your situation. They can also guide you through the decision-making process and help you understand the risks and benefits of each treatment option.
Taking charge of your health
Understanding kidney stones and taking proactive steps to manage them can significantly improve your quality of life. Remember, being informed and prepared allows you to tackle kidney stones head-on and minimize their impact.
Mr Ivo Dukic is a consultant urological surgeon specialising in kidney and ureteric stone surgery and offers personalised consultations. You can schedule an appointment with him through his Top Doctors profile for expert, bespoke advice or make an appointment through the Priory Hospital, Edgbaston, Circle Health Group or at Stourside Hospital, Stourbridge, Ramsay Healthcare.