Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. They can get stuck in the urinary tract and cause severe pain.

Causes of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can occur for a variety of reasons, such as:

• Not drinking enough water
• Consuming foods high in sodium, calcium, and oxalate

• Urinary tract infections
• Family history or genetic factors
• Increased levels of uric acid, etc.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

• Pain in the lower abdomen and back
• Presence of blood in the urine
• Pain or burning sensation while urinating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent urge to urinate

Prevention and Treatment of Kidney Stones

Prevention methods:

• Drink plenty of water daily
• Consume calcium- and oxalate-rich foods in controlled amount
• Avoid holding in urine and urinate regularly
• Avoid excessive salt and processed foods, and eat plenty of vegetables and fruits
• Exercise regularly

Treatment:

The treatment method depends on the size, location, and hardness of the kidney stone. Small stones may pass naturally through urine, but for larger stones, medical intervention may be necessary. This could include medication, lithotripsy (shock wave therapy), or surgery, as advised by a doctor.

Author

Prof. Brig. Gen. Dr. SM Shameem Waheed

Senior Consultant

Urology

Evercare Hospital Dhaka