The Kidney Clinic

Kidney stones are solid, crystalline deposits that form in the kidneys from substances in the urine. These stones can vary in size from tiny grains to large masses and are composed of minerals such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and cystine. They may develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing these substances to crystallize and form stones.

Causes and Risk Factors

Kidney stones can form due to various factors, including:

• Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake leads to concentrated urine, increasing the likelihood of stone formation.
• Dietary Factors: High intake of salt, protein, and oxalate-rich foods can contribute to stone formation.
• Genetics: A family history of kidney stones can increase your risk.
• Medical Conditions: Certain conditions, like hyperparathyroidism, gout, and metabolic disorders, can predispose individuals to kidney stones.
• Medications: Some medications may lead to stone formation as a side effect.

Symptoms

Kidney stones can be asymptomatic until they obstruct the urinary tract. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Severe Pain: Typically in the back, side, or lower abdomen, which may come in waves.
• Hematuria: Blood in the urine, making it appear pink, red, or brown.
• Frequent Urination: Urge to urinate more often, or pain during urination.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Associated with severe pain and discomfort.
• Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine: Indicating possible infection.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of kidney stones typically involves:

• Imaging Studies: Ultrasound, CT scans, or X-rays to visualize the size, location, and type of stones.
• Urinalysis: To detect the presence of blood, crystals, or infection.
• Blood Tests: To check for elevated levels of calcium, uric acid, or other substances associated with stone formation.

Treatment Options

The treatment approach for kidney stones depends on the size, type, and symptoms associated with the stones:

Medical Therapy:

• Medications: To help pass the stones or prevent further stone formation, such as alpha-blockers for stone passage or medications to alter urine composition.

Minimally Invasive Procedures:

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): Uses shock waves to break stones into smaller fragments that can be more easily passed.
• Ureteroscopy: A thin tube is inserted through the urethra to locate and remove or break up the stone using lasers.

Surgical Interventions:

• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A procedure where a small incision is made in the back to remove large stones directly from the kidney.
• Open Surgery: Rarely required but may be considered for very large or complex stones.

Preventive Measures:

• Dietary Adjustments: Reducing intake of high-oxalate foods, salt, and animal protein, and increasing dietary calcium.
• Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining adequate hydration and avoiding excessive consumption of stone-forming substances.
• Medications: To manage underlying conditions and prevent recurrence.

Follow-Up Care

Ongoing management may include regular follow-up appointments to monitor kidney function, recurrence of stones, and adherence to preventive measures. Our nephrologists will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of future stones.