Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are crystalline deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can be caused by various factors, including diet, medical conditions, and medications. When the urine is concentrated, minerals can stick together more easily and block any part of the urinary tract from the kidneys to the bladder.
Kidney stones usually do not cause permanent damage when identified and treated promptly. In some cases, passing a kidney stone might be as simple as drinking plenty of water and taking pain medication. However, if stones become wedged in the urinary tract or a urinary infection occurs, surgical intervention may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Insufficient hydration, obesity, and high consumption of salt or sugar are some of the most common causes of kidney stones.
One in ten people suffers from kidney stones in their lifetime, and the number of kidney stone-related visits to the emergency room has been on the rise each year.
Yes, kidney stones show their presence in the body through several signs, such as pain in the lower back and abdomen and blood in the urine. The larger the size of the stone, the more likely it is to precipitate symptoms.
Yes, stress in combination with chronic dehydration can potentially trigger kidney stone formation, as stress can result in high blood pressure and high blood sugar.

Kidney stones are diagnosed through medical history, physical examination, and imaging.

Physicians first allow the stones to pass on their own (i.e., without an invasive procedure). However, stones that are too large and block the urinary tract can be removed with surgery.
Patients who have had kidney stones are at a greater risk of developing chronic kidney disease and additional kidney stones.
Small stones pass within 1-2 weeks, whereas larger stones can take up to three weeks to pass.
Drinking plenty of fluids will ensure that the urine is more dilute, as kidney stones develop in urine concentrated with toxins. Additionally, avoiding excess sugar and salt consumption will help reduce patients’ risk of suffering from a kidney stone.