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How do kidney stones form?
Kidney stones formwhen there is a high level of minerals and stone forming substances like calcium , oxalate , or uric acid in the urine, which get deposited along the urinary tract, much like silt along a riverbed
a lack of citrate in the urine, which can wash away these substances
or insufficient water in the kidneys to dissolve these waste products.- a river with less flowing water is dirtier!
Kidney stones form
What are symptoms of kidney stones?
Stones that lodge in the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder (ureter) result in severe pain that begins in the loin and lower back and radiates to the groin or front of the lower abdomen. (The pain arises from the muscular tube trying to push the stone out, so is intermittent ) Blood in the urine visiting the bathroom more times than usual, many a time having to wake up at night to do so, , nausea and vomiting, Pain during urination
Stones that lodge in the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder (ureter) result in severe pain that begins in the loin and lower back and radiates to the groin or front of the lower abdomen. (The pain arises from the muscular tube trying to push the stone out, so is intermittent ) Blood in the urine visiting the bathroom more times than usual, many a time having to wake up at night to do so, , nausea and vomiting, Pain during urination
Which tests are used in diagnosis of stones?
Ultrasound
Ultrasound can detect an enlarged upper urinary tract and kidney caused by a stone lodged in the ureter, but usually cannot detect small stones, especially those located beyond the kidney (in the ureter). It is the preferred imaging method for kidney stone patients who are pregnant.
Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP)
This test involves taking a series of x-rays after injecting a contrast dye into a vein. Most kidney stones can be precisely located using this procedure.
Computerized tomography (CT Scan)
It can detect nearly all stones and can be done quickly. CT scan can also help identify other conditions (e.g., ruptured appendix, bowel obstruction) that cause symptoms similar to kidney stones. It can accurately measure the size of the stone aiding in the choice of treatment.
How are kidney stones treated?
Treating kidney stone depends on the size, position and number of stones in urinary system, patient age, associated medical conditions (e.g. Aspirin treatment), occupation of the patient etc.
The majority of small stones (< 4 mm stones) that are not causing infection, blockage or symptoms will pass with an increased water intake. Pain that occurs when small stones start down the ureter can usually be treated with rest and pain killers.
Certain types of stones, such as those made of uric acid, can be treated with medicines but majority of the stones are composed of calcium and may need a more aggressive level of treatme
In general stones more than 5-6 mm in size need treatment but the decision has to be indivisualised for the patient.