Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, or urolithiasis, are hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. Factors contributing to kidney stone formation include diet, excess body weight, certain medical conditions, and the use of specific supplements and medications. Stones typically develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and bind together.
Kidney Stones - Overview and Management
Symptoms: Symptoms usually arise when a stone moves within the kidney or
into the ureters, the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder.
Symptoms may include:
Severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs
Pain radiating to the lower abdomen and groin
Pain that fluctuates in intensity
Painful urination
Additional symptoms can include discolored urine, frequent or scant urination, nausea, vomiting, and fever if an infection is present.
Treatment: Management of kidney stones depends on their size and location. Small stones typically require hydration and pain medication, while larger stones or those causing complications may necessitate surgical intervention.
Prevention: Preventive measures may be recommended for individuals with a higher risk of recurrent stones, including dietary adjustments and medication.
When to Consult a Doctor: Consultation with a healthcare provider is advised for concerning symptoms. Immediate medical attention is warranted for severe pain, nausea, fever, hematuria, or difficulty urinating.
Risk Factors: The formation of kidney stones can be influenced by an excess of crystal-forming substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, especially when urine lacks substances that inhibit crystal aggregation.
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones:
Family and Personal History: A history of kidney stones in the family or personally increases the risk.
Dehydration: Insufficient water intake, especially in hot climates or among those who sweat heavily, heightens the risk.
Diet: High intake of protein, sodium, and sugar can contribute to stone formation. A diet rich in sodium is particularly impactful.
Obesity: Higher BMI, large waist size, and weight gain are linked to an increased risk.
Digestive Issues and Surgery: Conditions like gastric bypass surgery, inflammatory bowel disease, or chronic diarrhea can alter calcium and water absorption, leading to stone formation.
Medical Conditions: Renal tubular acidosis, cystinuria, hyperparathyroidism, and recurrent urinary tract infections can elevate the risk.
Supplements and Medications: Excessive use of vitamin C, dietary supplements, laxatives, calcium-based antacids, and certain medications for migraines or depression may increase the risk of kidney stones.
Kidney Stone Treatments
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy/nephrolithotripsy, abbreviated as PCNL, is a surgical technique designed to extract notably large kidney stones or those in the upper ureter through a minimally invasive approach. The procedure entails a small incision in the side of the body, enabling surgeons to either remove the stones or fragment them into smaller pieces, typically with negligible risk of complications. PCNL is particularly advantageous for stones that are too substantial for other treatments to address. It is known for its high rate of completely clearing stones, especially those over 2cm in diameter, often making it a preferable alternative to open surgery.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery, or RIRS, is a method of removing kidney stones that utilizes a ureteroscopic approach. This minimally invasive surgery employs the urethra as a channel to access the kidneys without the need for incisions. An optical endoscope is used to navigate to the kidneys, detect the stones, and then a laser is employed to pulverize the stones into dust. RIRS is typically reserved for large or intricate stones that are not suitable for lithotripsy treatment. The procedure boasts a high success rate with an exceedingly low risk of complications.
