Medically reviewed by Dr Itender Pal Singh
Kidney stones—also referred to as renal calculi or nephrolithiasis—are solid deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys or urinary tract. These stones vary in size and composition. Some may remain small and pass through the urinary system without any symptoms, while others can grow larger and cause significant pain, discomfort, and other symptoms such as blood in the urine and nausea.
Although kidney stones can be incredibly painful, treatment options are available depending on the size and severity of the stone. Additionally, preventive steps can be taken to reduce the risk of future kidney stones. This article will break down the causes, symptoms, types, diagnosis, and treatment options for kidney stones, while also providing key tips on how to prevent them.
In This Article-
Types of Kidney Stones: What Are They Made Of?
Kidney stones are classified based on their mineral composition. Understanding the type of kidney stone you have can help guide treatment and prevention efforts. Here are the common types:
- Calcium Oxalate Stones
Calcium oxalate stones account for roughly 67% of all kidney stones. This is the most common type of kidney stone. These stones are formed when calcium combines with oxalate in the urine. High levels of calcium in the body and low urinary pH are contributing factors. Unfortunately, calcium oxalate stones have a high recurrence rate, meaning individuals who experience one are at risk of developing them again. A diet high in oxalates (found in foods like spinach, chocolate, and nuts) can increase this risk. - Calcium Phosphate Stones
Calcium phosphate stones develop in people who eat a diet high in protein. Consuming more than 1 milligram of protein per kilogram of body weight can release excess calcium into your urine, which may result in these stones forming. Individuals with metabolic conditions affecting the regulation of calcium and phosphate are particularly prone to this type of stone. - Uric Acid Stones
Uric acid stones are the third most common type of kidney stone, occurring in about 8% of cases. They form when the urine is too acidic. People who consume a diet high in purine—found in red meat, fish, and shellfish—are more likely to develop uric acid stones. These stones tend to be softer than calcium stones, and in some cases, medications that increase the pH of urine may help dissolve them. - Struvite Stones
Struvite stones make up approximately 3% of kidney stones and typically form in people who experience chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs). These stones can grow large and quickly fill the kidney, potentially causing complications such as urinary obstruction and infection. Women with frequent UTIs are particularly at risk. - Cystine Stones
Cystine stones are the rarest type, accounting for less than 1% of all kidney stones. These stones form due to a genetic disorder called cystinuria, in which the kidneys fail to reabsorb the amino acid cystine. As a result, excess cystine is excreted into the urine, where it can form stones. People with cystinuria often experience recurring episodes of kidney stones throughout their lives.
Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones
The symptoms of kidney stones vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Small stones may pass unnoticed, while larger stones can cause severe discomfort and additional symptoms. Here are the most common signs that you may have a kidney stone:
- Pain
Kidney stone pain, also called renal colic, is the hallmark symptom. It usually starts suddenly and can range from mild to excruciating. The pain often occurs in waves and can last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. This pain is typically felt in the back, sides, or lower abdomen and can extend to the groin. - Blood in the Urine
Also known as hematuria, the presence of blood in the urine is another common symptom of kidney stones. This can cause your urine to appear pink, red, or brown, depending on the amount of blood present. - Smelly or Cloudy Urine
If a kidney stone becomes infected or causes a urinary tract infection, your urine may become foul-smelling or cloudy. This is often a sign of bacterial infection. - Frequent Urination
Kidney stones can irritate the bladder, leading to frequent or urgent urination. You may feel the need to urinate more often, even though you may pass only small amounts of urine. - Nausea and Vomiting
The pain from kidney stones can trigger nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, dehydration from vomiting can exacerbate symptoms. - Fever and Chills
A high fever or chills may indicate that the kidney stone has caused an infection. If you develop these symptoms, seek immediate medical care as untreated infections can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
Causes of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can develop for several reasons, many of which are tied to your diet, lifestyle, and genetic predispositions. Here are the most common causes:
- Dehydration
Not drinking enough water is a significant risk factor for kidney stones. When your urine is more concentrated, there’s a higher chance that minerals like calcium and oxalate will form crystals that eventually develop into stones. Signs of dehydration include dark-colored urine and thirst. - Dietary Factors
Certain foods can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. Diets high in sodium, protein, or oxalates (found in foods like beets, chocolate, and spinach) can promote stone formation. On the flip side, drinking plenty of water and consuming citrus fruits may help reduce your risk. - Family History
Genetics play a crucial role in kidney stone formation. If a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, has had kidney stones, you’re more likely to develop them as well. Genetic conditions like cystinuria also increase the likelihood of recurrent stones. - Medical Conditions
Conditions like gout, hyperparathyroidism, and obesity can increase your risk of developing kidney stones. For instance, gout leads to high levels of uric acid, which can result in uric acid stones.
Diagnosis: How Are Kidney Stones Identified?
If you suspect you have a kidney stone, it’s important to visit your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. This helps not only relieve symptoms but also prevent complications. Your healthcare provider may use the following diagnostic tools:
- Physical Examination and Medical History
Your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and family history to assess the likelihood of kidney stones. A physical exam may reveal areas of tenderness, particularly around your kidneys and abdomen. - Urine and Blood Tests
A urine test can detect abnormalities such as blood, white blood cells, or high mineral levels, which may indicate kidney stones. Blood tests can also help check kidney function and detect infections or other health conditions contributing to stone formation. - Imaging
Imaging techniques, such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds, are often used to confirm the presence of kidney stones. These scans provide a detailed view of your urinary tract and can help determine the size, location, and type of stone.
Treatment Options: How Are Kidney Stones Managed?
The treatment for kidney stones depends largely on the size of the stone and the severity of symptoms. In many cases, small stones may pass on their own with the help of pain medication and increased fluid intake. However, larger stones or those causing complications may require medical intervention.
Medical Procedures
- Shock Wave Lithotripsy
Shock wave lithotripsy is a non-invasive procedure that uses high-energy sound waves to break the kidney stone into smaller pieces, making them easier to pass through the urinary system. This procedure typically requires anesthesia and may cause some discomfort during the recovery process. - Cystoscopy or Ureteroscopy
During cystoscopy or ureteroscopy, a thin instrument with a camera is inserted into the bladder or ureter. The healthcare provider can either remove the stone or break it up with a laser, making it easier to pass. - Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
For larger stones, a percutaneous nephrolithotomy may be required. This surgical procedure involves making an incision in the back to access the kidney and remove the stone directly. It is typically reserved for stones that are too large to pass naturally or for patients with severe symptoms.
Supportive Care
- Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen can help manage mild to moderate pain. For more severe cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain medications such as morphine or hydrocodone. - Hydration
Drinking plenty of fluids is key to helping kidney stones pass. In some cases, an intravenous (IV) line may be used to administer fluids, particularly if you’re dehydrated or experiencing severe symptoms.
Preventing Future Kidney Stones
If you’ve experienced kidney stones once, you’re at higher risk for developing them again. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of recurrence:
- Hydration – Drinking plenty of water is the most effective way to prevent kidney stones. Aim to consume at least 8-12 glasses of water per day, more if you’re physically active or live in a hot climate. Staying hydrated helps dilute your urine, preventing the buildup of minerals and salts that form stones.
- Limit Sodium Intake
A high-sodium diet increases the amount of calcium your kidneys excrete into the urine, which can contribute to stone formation. To lower your risk, limit your daily sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams. Avoid processed foods, canned soups, and salty snacks, as they are often high in sodium. - Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help prevent kidney stones. Citrus fruits, such as lemons and oranges, contain citrate, a compound that inhibits stone formation. Additionally, consuming adequate calcium from food sources (such as dairy products) can actually reduce the risk of calcium-based stones. However, be cautious with calcium supplements, as excessive amounts may have the opposite effect. - Reduce Oxalate-Rich Foods
If you are prone to calcium oxalate stones, reducing your intake of oxalate-rich foods such as spinach, beets, rhubarb, and nuts may help. However, it’s important not to completely eliminate these foods from your diet, as they provide essential nutrients. Instead, balance them with calcium-rich foods, which can bind oxalate in the intestines and prevent stone formation. - Limit Animal Protein
High-protein diets, particularly those rich in red meat, poultry, and fish, can increase your risk of uric acid and calcium oxalate stones. Try to limit your intake of animal proteins and replace some with plant-based sources like beans, lentils, and tofu. - Monitor Calcium Supplementation
While calcium-rich foods are generally beneficial, excessive use of calcium supplements can increase the risk of kidney stones. If you need calcium supplements, consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage. - Medications
If you’re at high risk of recurrent kidney stones, your doctor may prescribe medications to help prevent them. For example:
Thiazide diuretics can decrease calcium levels in your urine.
Allopurinol can reduce uric acid levels, preventing the formation of uric acid stones.
Potassium citrate may help prevent both uric acid and calcium stones by increasing urine pH levels.
- Regular Medical Checkups
If you’ve had kidney stones in the past, it’s essential to have regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. Routine urine and blood tests can monitor your risk and detect any signs of stone formation early.
Kidney stones can be incredibly painful, but with the right knowledge, you can manage and even prevent them. By staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, limiting sodium, and paying attention to your body’s signals, you can reduce your risk of kidney stones and maintain better overall health.
If you suspect you may have kidney stones or are at risk due to family history or medical conditions, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Proper diagnosis, timely treatment, and a proactive approach to prevention can help you avoid the discomfort and complications associated with kidney stones.
SOURCES–
We have a very strict reviewing guidelines on how to run every article in the website. Everything we write follow a very strict reviewing process by following high quality peer-reviewed studies. Every source we follow are credible and accurate and again reviewed by our doctors to give you all high quality advise and content.
Harrison Manual Of Internal Medicine
Cleveland Clinic: “Kidney Stones,” “Renal Colic.”
Mayo Clinic: “Kidney Stones.”
Harvard Health Publications, Harvard Medical School: “5 steps for preventing kidney stones,” “Kidney stones: Common, painful, preventable.”
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