Kidney Stones-Types, Causes & Prevention

Kidneystones are the result of a buildup of dissolved minerals on the inner lining of the kidneys. Sometimes, kidney stones pass on their own without treatment. But if kidney stones are giving you pain and are stuck in your urinary tract, you may need to have them removed with surgery.

Dr.Rahul Yadav is currently Senior Consultant in Department of Urology and Renal Transplant, Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Lucknow discusses about Kidney Stone, Types, Causes and Prevention.

What are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones, or renal calculi, are solid masses made from crystals. Kidney stones usually originate in your kidneys and can migrate to ureter, bladder or urethra and can cause obstruction. Kidney stones are one of the most painful medical conditions. The causes of kidney stones vary according to the type of stone.

Kidney Stone - Types

There are several types of kidney stones. Despite their differences, the symptoms they create and the way they are treated is usually very similar.

·       Calcium stones. The most common form of kidney stone, accounting for 75-85% of cases.

·       Struvite (infection) stones. Caused by urinary tract infections. Found more often in women.

·       Uric acid stones. Made purely of uric acid, a by-product of protein metabolism.

·       Cystine stones. The least common type of stone, found in about 1% of cases.

Kidney Stone - Causes

Kidney stones are caused by high levels of calcium, oxalate, and phosphorus in the urine. These minerals are normally found in urine and do not cause problems at low levels. Kidney stones form when your urine contains more crystal-forming substances — such as calcium, oxalate and uric acid — than the fluid in your urine can dilute. At the same time, your urine may lack substances that prevent crystals from sticking together, creating an ideal environment for kidney stones to form.

Certain foods may increase the chances of having a kidneystone in people who are more likely to develop them.

Kidney Stone– Prevention

Dr.Rahul Yadav recommends Drink more water. By drinking up to 12 glasses of water a day you can help flush away the substances that form kidney stones.

·       Limit caffeinated beverages to one or two cups per day. The caffeine in coffee, tea and sodas may cause a rapid loss of fluid and high in oxalates, that might lead to kidney stones.

·  Certain medications may be prescribed by your doctor to prevent kidney stones.

·       With all dietary modifications, be sure to consult your physician.

When to see a doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any signs and symptoms that worry you.Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

·       Pain so severe that you can't sit still or find a comfortable position

·       Pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting

·       Pain accompanied by fever and chills

·       Blood in your urine

·       Difficulty passing urine

Dr.Rahul Yadav is the one of best Endourologist/surgeon for treating kidney stones where it is indicated. Dr. Rahul Yadav is one of the experienced, dedicated and best urologists in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India and well trained and proficient in RIRS/PCNL/Laser Stone surgery.