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Kidney stones or renal calculi are crystal masses that form from minerals and proteins in urine. The most common types contain calcium salts. They begin in the kidney as very tiny grains, but can grow to more than two centimetres in size.
The causes of kidney stones are not always clear. Diet and fluid intake appear to be major factors. Stones seem to be more common in hot climates and during summer months. They are more common in hotter regions. This may be because hot weather leads to loss of body fluids. It may also be due to regional diet. People with gout can have kidney stones made from uric acid. Stones are more common in men than in women. Hormone imbalance, urinary infections, or urinary obstruction are other possible factors. Certain genetic factors may contribute to having kidney stones. The stone may get caught in the wall of the ureter. The ureter is the tube that begins in the kidney and ends in the bladder. It allows the urine, which is formed in the kidney, to drain through it and into the bladder. If the stone gets large enough, it obstructs the flow of urine from the kidney into the bladder. This obstruction can be in the kidney. However, the most usual obstruction occurs in the ureter. The obstruction, whether partial or complete, produces spasms and pain. Pain is the most common and key symptom when a stone moves from the kidney. Most people will also pass some blood in the urine that can only be seen through a microscope. If stones remain in the kidney they may cause: - a dull pain or
- kidney damage, which may be permanent
An examination for the presence of kidney stones includes a history, physical examination, and laboratory examinations, including an analysis of the urine and x-ray or ultrasound tests. The doctor who does the surgery is known as a urologist. The urologist might extract the stone surgically. The urologist might also break up large stones with shock waves or ultrasound (lithotripsy). Following the removal of the stone, urine tests and analysis of stone fragments will help the urologist decide on the right therapy. The urologist may also recommend dietary changes. DIETARY CHANGES THAT MAY HELP INCLUDE: - drinking plenty of fluids to flush out the urinary system
- eating more high fibre foods, like bran
- limiting your sodium intake
- limiting your protein intake and
- reducing calcium only in patients who form calcium-based stones and then only when specifically instructed to do so by their doctor.
Physical activity seems to help prevent stones. Without following medical treatment after surgical removal, stones will return in half of the patients over the next five years. The symptoms of kidney stones can be alarming. If you notice blood in your urine or a constant dull or severe colicky pain in the kidney area or groin, consult your doctor promptly. Article #5263 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
