STONE IN KIDNEY AND ITS CURE

Kidney Stones: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments

Kidney stones are a common yet painful health condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Medically known as renal calculi, kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. While small stones may pass unnoticed, larger stones can cause severe discomfort and require medical attention. Treating small kidney stonesSmall kidney stones may cause pain until you pass them, which can take a few weeks. A GP may recommend a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) to help with pain. To ease your symptoms, a GP might also recommend: drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones develop when certain substances in urine—such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid—become concentrated and crystallise. Over time, these crystals stick together and form solid stones. Dehydration, dietary habits, and certain medical conditions increase the risk of stone formation.

Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Symptoms of kidney stones vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Small stones may cause no symptoms at all, while larger stones can trigger intense pain. Common kidney stone symptoms include:

Severe pain in the lower back or side, often radiating to the abdomen or groin
Sharp, cramping pain that comes in waves
Painful or burning sensation during urination
Blood in urine (pink, red, or brown colour)
Frequent urge to urinate, even when little urine passes
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Nausea and vomiting
Fever and chills, indicating a possible infection

If you experience persistent pain, fever, or difficulty passing urine, medical advice should be sought immediately.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to the development of kidney stones, including:

Insufficient water intake
High salt or protein-rich diets
Excessive consumption of oxalate-rich foods (such as spinach and nuts)
Family history of kidney stones
Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
Medical conditions, such as gout or urinary tract infections

Understanding the cause helps in both treatment and prevention.

Diagnosis of Kidney Stones

Doctors typically diagnose kidney stones through:

Urine tests to detect blood or minerals
Blood tests to identify underlying causes
Imaging tests such as ultrasound, X-ray, or CT scan

Early diagnosis can prevent complications and ease treatment.

Treatment Options for Kidney Stones

Treatment depends on the size, type, and location of the stone.

1. Home Treatment for Small Stones

Small kidney stones often pass on their own with proper care, including:

Drinking plenty of water (2–3 litres daily)
Pain relief medication, such as prescribed analgesics
Alpha-blockers, which help relax urinary muscles and ease stone passage

2. Medical Treatments for Larger Stones

For stones that do not pass naturally, medical procedures may be required:

Shock Wave Lithotripsy (SWL): Uses sound waves to break stones into smaller pieces
Endoscopy: A thin tube removes or breaks the stone
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: A minor surgical procedure for very large stones

Doctors choose the safest and most effective method based on the patient’s condition.

Prevention Tips for Kidney Stones

Preventing kidney stones is often easier than treating them. Key prevention measures include:

Staying well hydrated throughout the day
Reducing salt intake
Eating a balanced diet with moderate calcium
Limiting sugary and fizzy drinks
Following medical advice if you have a history of stones

Conclusion

Kidney stones can be extremely painful, but with early recognition of kidney stone symptoms and timely treatment, most people recover fully. Simple lifestyle changes, proper hydration, and medical care play a vital role in both treatment and prevention. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional is essential to avoid complications.

By staying informed and proactive, you can protect your kidney health and reduce the risk of future stone formation.