Kidney Stones

What is Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones, or renal calculi, are hard deposits that form in the kidneys. They are mineral and salt crystals that stick together and form solid masses. Kidney stones can vary in size, from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. These stones can cause intense pain and discomfort as they pass through the urinary tract.

There are different types of kidney stones based on their composition. The most common types are calcium stones, which occur when calcium combines with other substances like oxalate or phosphate. Another type is uric acid stones, which form when there is too much uric acid in the urine. Other less common types include struvite stones, caused by urinary tract infections, and cystine stones, caused by a genetic disorder.

The symptoms of kidney stones can vary depending on their size and location. Small stones may not cause any symptoms and can pass out of the body without causing any pain. However, larger stones can get stuck in the urinary tract, leading to severe pain in the lower back, abdomen, groin, or side. The pain can come in waves and may be accompanied by blood in the urine, frequent urination, cloudy urine, or a strong-smelling urine.

There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones. Dehydration is one of the main factors, as it can lead to concentrated urine and the formation of stones. Other risk factors include a diet high in sodium, protein, or oxalate, obesity, certain medical conditions like urinary tract infections or kidney disease, and a family history of kidney stones.

What causes Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause excruciating pain. While there are multiple factors that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones, the most common causes include:

Dehydration: Insufficient water intake can lead to a concentrated urine, which increases the likelihood of crystal formation. It is important to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep the kidneys flushed and help prevent the formation of kidney stones.

Dietary factors: Certain dietary choices can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Consuming a diet high in salt, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods (such as spinach, chocolate, and nuts) can contribute to the development of kidney stones. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, low in salt, and high in water content can be beneficial in preventing their formation.

Family history: There is evidence to suggest that genetics can play a role in kidney stone formation. If a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, has had kidney stones, an individual may be more predisposed to developing them as well.

Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of kidney stone formation. These include urinary tract infections, kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism, and certain metabolic disorders. In these cases, it is important to manage the underlying condition to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation.

Obesity: Being overweight or obese can contribute to the development of kidney stones. This is believed to be due to various factors, including altered urine composition and hormonal changes associated with excess adipose tissue.

What precautions you should take for Kidney Stones?

As a medical professional, it is important to emphasize the precautions that should be taken when dealing with kidney stones. These small, hard deposits that form in your kidneys can cause excruciating pain and potentially lead to serious complications if not properly managed.

First and foremost, staying well-hydrated is crucial. Drinking plenty of water helps to dilute the urine, making it less likely for crystals to form and potentially form kidney stones. It is recommended to aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, especially in hot climates or during physical activity.

Next, diet plays a vital role in preventing kidney stones. Patients should avoid consuming excessive amounts of foods that are high in oxalate, such as spinach, rhubarb, beets, and chocolate. Additionally, reducing salt intake is important, as high sodium levels can increase calcium excretion in urine, leading to stone formation. A well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is generally recommended, but it is always advisable to consult with a registered dietitian to develop a tailored diet plan.

Regular exercise is another key component in kidney stone prevention. Physical activity helps to maintain a healthy weight, which can in turn reduce the risk of kidney stones. Obesity is a known risk factor for stone formation, as excess body weight can lead to increased levels of calcium and oxalate in urine.

What are the main symptoms of Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on their size and location. The most common symptom is severe pain, which is typically experienced in your side or back, below your ribs. This pain can be excruciating and may come in waves, fluctuating in intensity. In addition to the pain, you may also experience other symptoms such as:

Discomfort while urinating: Kidney stones can cause discomfort or a burning sensation when you urinate. This may be accompanied by the frequent urge to urinate.

Blood in the urine: If a kidney stone scrapes the lining of your urinary tract, it can cause bleeding. This can result in blood appearing in your urine, which may be visible to the naked eye or detected through laboratory tests.

Cloudy or foul-smelling urine: In some cases, kidney stones may cause changes in the appearance or odor of your urine. It may become cloudy, have a strong smell, or appear pinkish due to the presence of blood.

Nausea and vomiting: Certain kidney stones can trigger nausea and vomiting, especially if they cause a blockage in your urinary system. These symptoms may be accompanied by a loss of appetite.

Fever and chills: If an infection occurs in conjunction with kidney stones, you may experience a fever and chills. Infections can develop if the stone causes a blockage and prevents urine from fully draining from the affected kidney.

Urinating small amounts: Kidney stones can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to difficulty in emptying your bladder completely. This can result in urinating in small amounts or feeling like you haven’t completely emptied your bladder.

Severe pain in the lower abdomen or groin: Occasionally, a kidney stone may move into the lower part of the urinary tract, causing intense pain in the abdomen or groin area.

How Kidney Stones is diagnosed?

First, I will gather the patient’s medical history, asking about their symptoms, duration, and any previous history of kidney stones. This information is critical in identifying risk factors and guiding further testing. For example, a family history of kidney stones increases the likelihood of a patient having them.

Next, a physical examination helps me assess the patient’s overall health and determine if there are any additional signs or symptoms related to kidney stones. This may involve feeling the abdomen for tenderness or examining the lower back to check for pain or discomfort.

To confirm the presence of kidney stones, various diagnostic tests may be ordered. A urine analysis is commonly performed, which can detect presence of blood or crystals. Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray can visualize the stones and provide valuable information on their size, location, and number.

In certain cases, additional tests such as blood tests or urine tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions or determine the underlying cause of kidney stone formation.

What are some of the main medical treatments for Kidney Stones?

There are several medical treatments available for kidney stones, depending on their size, location, and the severity of symptoms. One of the most common treatments is drinking plenty of fluids, which helps to flush out the stones from the urinary system. Pain medication may also be prescribed to alleviate discomfort. In certain cases, if the stones are too large or causing severe symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary.

This can include procedures such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), ureteroscopy, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy. These techniques aim to break down or remove the stones through non-invasive or minimally invasive methods, reducing the need for open surgery. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment option for each individual case.

Which supplements work best with Kidney Stones?

One supplement that has shown promise in preventing the formation of kidney stones is citrate. Citrate is naturally found in citrus fruits and can increase the pH of urine, making it less acidic and therefore less likely to form stones. It is available in supplement form and can be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Another supplement that may be helpful is vitamin B6. Some studies have suggested that vitamin B6 supplementation may decrease the risk of kidney stone formation by reducing the levels of oxalate, a substance that can contribute to stone formation. However, further research is needed to establish the effectiveness of vitamin B6 in preventing kidney stones.

One widely used supplement for kidney health is cranberry extract. While it may not directly prevent kidney stone formation, cranberry extract has been shown to help support urinary tract health and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, which can sometimes be a trigger for kidney stones.

Frequently Asked Question on Kidney Stones

1. What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are solid deposits that form in the kidneys when there are high levels of certain substances, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, in the urine. These deposits can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball.

2. What are the symptoms of kidney stones?

Some common symptoms of kidney stones include severe pain in the lower back or side, blood in the urine, frequent urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and a persistent urge to urinate. These symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the stone.

3. How are kidney stones diagnosed?

To diagnose kidney stones, your doctor may order imaging tests such as x-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans. These tests can help determine the size, location, and number of stones present in your kidneys.

4. What causes kidney stones?

Kidney stones can form due to a variety of factors, including dehydration, certain medical conditions, a diet high in salt or oxalate-rich foods, obesity, and a family history of kidney stones. It’s important to note that the exact cause of kidney stones may vary from person to person.

5. Can kidney stones be prevented?

While it’s not always possible to prevent kidney stones, there are several measures you can take to reduce your risk. These include staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, adopting a balanced diet low in sodium and oxalate, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive intake of certain foods and beverages such as soda and alcohol.

6. How are kidney stones treated?

The treatment for kidney stones can vary depending on their size and location. Small stones may pass on their own with the help of pain-relieving medications and increased fluid intake. Larger stones or those causing severe symptoms may require medical intervention, such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), ureteroscopy, or surgery, to remove or break up the stones.

7. Are kidney stones a common problem?

Yes, kidney stones are a common problem affecting both men and women of all ages. According to the National Kidney Foundation, about 1 in 10 people will experience a kidney stone at some point in their lives.

8. Can kidney stones be passed through urine?

Yes, smaller kidney stones, typically less than 5 millimeters in diameter, have a good chance of passing through urine on their own. This can be aided by drinking plenty of water and taking pain medications as prescribed by your doctor. However, larger stones may require medical intervention to be removed.

9. Are kidney stones contagious?

No, kidney stones are not contagious. They are not caused by a virus, bacteria, or any other infectious agent. Kidney stones form due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, as well as lifestyle choices.

10. Can diet affect the formation of kidney stones?

Yes, diet can definitely influence the formation of kidney stones. Consuming a diet high in salt, oxalate-rich foods (such as spinach, rhubarb, and chocolate), and animal protein can increase the risk of developing certain types of kidney stones. It’s important to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary recommendations.

Dt. Mary Ahern

MS, RD

Dietitian

Mary Ahern, MS, RD is a registered dietitian and health writer who is passionate about plant-based nutrition and achieving better health by balancing time between the kitchen and the gym. Currently she's pursuing PhD from University of Arizona