KIDNEY STONES

Treating Kidney Stones in the Blue Ridge Community

KIDNEY STONES

WHAT ARE KIDNEY STONES?

The kidneys act as filters in the body to remove waste products from the blood to make urine. An imbalance in waste products combined with inadequate fluid from hydration can cause the formation of a kidney stone. A kidney stone is a small, hard deposit of minerals and salts that form in the kidney. Kidney stones can be very painful when passing through the urinary tract; however, they usually do not cause any permanent damage.

Men are more likely to develop them than women and white men are most likely to be affected. Some factors that may play a role in developing kidney stones are diet, obesity and some medical conditions or chronic diseases. Certain medications and dietary supplements can increase the chance of developing them.

Most kidney stones form when urine has a higher concentration of calcium, oxalate and uric acid. Calcium oxalate stones and uric acid stones are the most common but cystine stones, calcium phosphate stones, and struvite stones are possible as well. The ideal environment for kidney stones to form occurs when there is not enough fluid in the urine to dilute these crystal-forming substances. Knowing which type of kidney stone you have can help reduce the risk of developing more stones in the future.

Blue Ridge Urological of Fishersville, VA provides expert diagnosis and treatment for all conditions related to the urinary tract including kidney stones. Although they rarely require treatment, patients can benefit from knowing the type of stone that has formed and ways to modify the diet to avoid developing them in the future.

KIDNEY STONE RISK FACTORS

Certain people may have an increased risk of kidney stones, especially if they have a family history or personal history of them. Additional risk factors include:

  • CHRONIC DEHYDRATION – if you do not take in enough fluid or lose fluid due to chronic diarrhea or malabsorption, you may have an increased risk
  • OBESITY – has been linked to their development
  • DIET – if your diet contains a high amount of protein, sodium or sugar, you may have an increased risk of developing them. High sodium diets increase the amount of calcium your kidneys need to filter leaving you vulnerable to an imbalance that can create an ideal environment for their development
  • GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY – having gastric bypass surgery increases the risk as it changes the absorption of certain substances like oxalate
  • CHRONIC DISEASES – chronic bowel diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, which often cause chronic diarrhea, affect the absorption of calcium and water. Kidney disease can also lead to stones.
  • SUPPLEMENTS AND CERTAIN PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS are filtered by the kidneys and can increase the risk

SYMPTOMS OF KIDNEY STONES

Kidney stones begin to cause symptoms when they move around inside the kidney or pass through the ureter, the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder. Small kidney stones can become trapped in the ureter, blocking the flow of urine, which can cause the kidney to swell. This can cause significant pain.

Other symptoms of kidney stones are:

  • Sharp or severe pain in the back and side below the ribs

  • Pain in the abdomen

  • Pain in the groin

  • Fluctuating pain that intensifies and lessens

  • Burning sensation or pain during urination

  • Blood in urine

  • Cloudy urine that can be pink, red or brown

  • Sensation of needing to urinate persistently and producing small amounts of urine

  • Nausea and vomiting

As kidney stones pass through the urinary tract, the pain can change location and intensity, and this indicates that the stone is moving through and may pass soon.

kidney stones

DIAGNOSING KIDNEY STONES

If you are currently suffering from symptoms of a kidney stone or have had them in the past, you can benefit from an appointment with a urologist. At Blue Ridge Urological, we can help determine the cause of the kidney stone, the type of kidney stone you have as well as offer some lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk or prevent future stones. If you or your doctor suspects you have a kidney stone, there are tests that can help make an accurate diagnosis.

Testing for a kidney stone includes:

Blood tests can help identify high levels of calcium or uric acid which can cause kidney stones as well as check the kidney functions to make sure they are healthy.

A urine collection over the course of 24 hours can help identify the presence of crystallizing substances.

Imaging tests that can identify very small kidney stones and their locations.

These tests will be performed after you have passed the kidney stone and bring it to the office for analysis. This will help determine the chemical components of the stone which can help you make appropriate lifestyle changes to reduce the risk and even prevent stones in the future.

TREATMENT FOR KIDNEY STONES

Small stones do not require invasive treatment or therapy. They will usually pass over time by increasing fluid intake. As kidney stones move, they can become uncomfortable and cause pain; therefore, you can take over-the-counter pain medication to help relieve the symptoms. Your doctor may be able to prescribe a medication that will help you pass a kidney stone by relaxing the muscles of the ureter.

There are treatments available for patients who are suffering from large kidney stones that are too large to pass without intervention and cause bleeding, kidney damage, and urinary tract infections. These treatments include:

EXTRACORPOREAL SHOCK WAVE LITHOTRIPSY

This treatment uses sound waves to break the kidney stone into tiny pieces that are able to pass through the urinary tract. This procedure may require light sedation to increase patient comfort.

SURGERY

There is a surgical procedure known as percutaneous nephrolithotomy that utilizes small instruments to remove the stone through a small incision in the back.

URETEROSCOPY

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia as the doctor passes a long, thin tube into the urinary tract to find and remove the stone or to break it into smaller bits.

Once you have passed a kidney stone, either naturally or with intervention, it is important to determine the cause of your kidney stones so that you can adopt lifestyle changes that will help reduce the risk of developing them in the future. One of the best ways to help prevent them is to stay hydrated each day by drinking 8-12 cups of water. Modifying your diet to reduce protein, sodium and sugars can help as well.

At Blue Ridge Urological, we provide the highest standard of care for the diagnosis and treatment of kidney stones. We employ the latest and most advanced techniques and procedures available to ensure each patient is as comfortable as possible during tests and treatments. If you suspect you have a kidney stone or would like to learn more about how Blue Ridge Urological can help, call (540) 405-8232 today or schedule a consultation online.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best treatment for kidney stones?

There are various treatment options available for large kidney stones. Our team of urology experts can help to determine which treatment is best for your individual case.

How do you know when a kidney stone is about to pass?

When a kidney stone is about to pass, individuals may experience severe pain starting in the back or side of the ribs and radiating to the abdomen or groin, bloody urine, urinary symptoms such as urgency or pain during urination, and nausea.

What kind of food causes kidney stones?

Foods high in oxalates, such as spinach, almonds, and rhubarb, high in sodium, animal protein, and calcium, may increase a persons risk of developing kidney stones.

What is the treatment for kidney stones?

While small kidney stones do not often require treatment, larger stones can be addressed through surgery, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, or ureteroscopy. The procedure that is right for you can be discussed during an appointment.

What are kidney stones?

Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They often form when the urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together.

What are the different types of kidney stones?

Kidney stones can be classified into several types based on their composition. The most common types include: Calcium Oxalate Stones: These are the most prevalent type and form when calcium combines with oxalate in the urine. High levels of calcium or oxalate can lead to their formation. Calcium Phosphate Stones: These stones occur when there is an excess of phosphate in the urine, often associated with metabolic conditions. Uric Acid Stones: These form when urine is too acidic, often due to high protein diets or dehydration. Struvite Stones: Typically caused by urinary tract infections, these stones can grow quickly and may require surgical intervention. Cystine Stones: These rare stones develop in individuals with a genetic disorder that causes excessive cystine in the urine. Understanding the type of kidney stone is crucial for effective treatment and prevention strategies.

How can I tell if I am at risk for developing kidney stones?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. A family history of kidney stones, certain medical conditions (like gout or inflammatory bowel disease), dehydration, and dietary habits can all contribute. If you have had a previous kidney stone, you are also at a higher risk of forming new ones. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for a metabolic evaluation if you have experienced kidney stones before, as this can help identify specific risk factors and guide preventive measures.

Can lifestyle changes help prevent kidney stones?

Yes, making specific lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. Staying well-hydrated is one of the most effective preventive measures; aim to drink enough water to produce at least 2 liters of urine daily. Additionally, modifying your diet by reducing sodium intake, limiting animal protein consumption, and ensuring adequate calcium intake from food sources (rather than supplements) can help prevent stone formation. Incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet may also increase urinary citrate levels, which helps inhibit stone formation.

What role does hydration play in preventing kidney stones?

Hydration is critical in preventing kidney stones because it dilutes the substances in urine that lead to stone formation. When you are well-hydrated, your urine is less concentrated, which reduces the likelihood of crystals forming into stones. Drinking enough fluids—ideally around 2 to 3 liters per day—can significantly lower your risk of developing kidney stones, especially if you have a history of this condition.

Are there any long-term effects after passing a kidney stone?

Most individuals do not experience long-term effects after passing a kidney stone; however, some may develop complications or experience recurrent stones. Passing a stone can cause temporary discomfort and may lead to urinary tract infections if not managed properly. Its essential to follow up with your healthcare provider after passing a stone to discuss prevention strategies and any necessary lifestyle adjustments to reduce the likelihood of future occurrences.

How to prevent kidney stones?

Aim for at least 8–12 cups of water daily. A balanced diet low in salt and protein can also reduce risk, particularly for those prone to certain stones. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight are additional preventive measures.

What is kidney stone pain like?

Kidney stone pain is typically described as one of the most intense pains a person can experience. It usually begins suddenly in the side or back and may radiate to the lower abdomen or groin as the stone moves through the urinary tract.

What are foods that cause kidney stones?

High-oxalate foods like spinach, rhubarb, nuts, and chocolate can lead to calcium oxalate stones. Foods rich in animal protein, like red meat and shellfish, increase uric acid levels, possibly forming uric acid stones. High-sodium diets can raise calcium levels in the urine, heightening the risk.

What is the fastest way to dissolve a kidney stone?

The fastest way to dissolve a kidney stone depends on its type. Drinking water and consulting a healthcare provider for tailored treatment are essential for effective stone management.

How long does it take for a kidney stone to pass?

The time it takes to pass a kidney stone varies based on size and location. Smaller stones, typically less than 4 mm, may pass within a few days to weeks with proper hydration. Larger stones can take longer or may require medical intervention; on average, the process can take a few weeks.

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