Treatments

A kidney stone, also known as a renal calculus or nephrolithiasis, is a hard mineral and salt deposit that forms in the kidneys. These stones can vary in size and can cause significant pain and discomfort when they move through the urinary tract. Kidney stones typically develop when certain substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, become highly concentrated and crystallize. There are several types of kidney stones, each formed from different combinations of these substances: Calcium Stones: These are the most common type of kidney stones, and they can be either calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate stones. Uric Acid Stones: These stones form when the urine is too acidic, causing uric acid to crystallize and form stones. They are more likely to occur in individuals with a high-purine diet (found in foods like red meat and seafood) or those with certain medical conditions. Struvite Stones: These stones are typically associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) and can grow rapidly and become quite large. Cystine Stones: These rare stones form due to a genetic disorder that causes the kidneys to excrete too much of certain amino acids, leading to the formation of cystine stones. Symptoms of kidney stones can vary but often include severe pain, usually on one side of the back or abdomen, as the stone moves through the urinary tract. Other symptoms can include: Painful or frequent urination. Blood in the urine. Cloudy or foul-smelling urine. Nausea and vomiting. Discomfort or pain that comes and goes in waves.