Disease
Kidney Stones
Overview of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones, medically known as nephrolithiasis or urolithiasis, are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. These stones develop when the urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. They can affect any part of the urinary tract—from the kidneys to the bladder and often cause severe pain. While some stones pass on their own, others may require medical intervention.
Types of Kidney Stones
- Calcium Stones: The most common type, usually composed of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate.
- Struvite Stones: Often form in response to urinary tract infections.
- Uric Acid Stones: Seen in people who lose too much fluid or have high-protein diets.
- Cystine Stones: Rare and usually hereditary, caused by a genetic disorder.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
- Sudden, intense pain in the side or back (kidney stone pain location)
- Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen or groin
- Pain during urination
- Pink, red, or brown urine
- Nausea or vomiting
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Fever and chills if infection is present
Causes of Kidney Stones
- Inadequate water intake leading to concentrated urine
- Diets high in protein, sodium or sugar
- Obesity and metabolic disorders
- Certain supplements or medications
- Genetic predisposition or family history
- Chronic digestive conditions or surgeries
Complications in Kidney Stones
- Persistent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Obstruction of urine flow
- Kidney damage or reduced kidney function
- Severe infection or sepsis
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Recurrence of stones
Risk Factors of Kidney Stones
- Personal or family history of kidney stones
- Dehydration from not drinking enough fluids
- High-protein, high-sodium or high-sugar diets
- Digestive diseases or gastric bypass surgery
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
- Certain medications and supplements
Preventions of Kidney Stones
- Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily
- Reduce salt, sugar and animal protein intake
- Include more citrus fruits in your diet
- Avoid oxalate-rich foods if advised (e.g., spinach, nuts)
- Maintain a healthy weight through regular activity
- Follow your doctor’s advice on supplements or medications
Diagnosis of Kidney Stones
- Imaging tests (CT scan, ultrasound, X-rays) to detect size and location of stones
- Urinalysis to check for crystals, blood or infection
- Blood tests to identify excess minerals or health conditions
- Stone analysis if passed or removed to determine type and cause
Treatments of Kidney Stones
- Hydration therapy to flush small stones
- Pain relief medications for symptom control
- Alpha-blockers to relax ureter muscles and aid stone passage
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) to break stones
- Ureteroscopy to locate and remove or break stones
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy for large or complex stones
- Surgical removal in rare, severe cases
Prognosis of Kidney Stones
- Most kidney stones are treatable with good outcomes
- Small stones often pass without complications
- Preventive strategies reduce recurrence risk
- Chronic or recurrent stones may need long-term management
- Early treatment ensures kidney function preservation
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Personalised assessment and diagnostic workup
- Access to expert nephrologists and urologists
- Advanced imaging and minimally invasive procedures
- Dietary counseling for long-term prevention
- Full support for international patients including second opinions and treatment planning
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What caused my kidney stone?
- Will I need surgery or can it pass naturally?
- Is it likely to come back?
- What lifestyle changes should I make?
- How can I manage the pain?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of the type and size of stone
- Personalised treatment options
- Honest discussion about pain management
- Guidance on diet and fluid intake
- Support in understanding preventive strategies
- Respectful and empathetic communication
- Help in planning follow-ups and monitoring
- Assurance on treatment safety and effectiveness