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Kidney Stones

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Kidney Stones

Kidney stones (renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, or urolithiasis) are hard, crystalline mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. They develop when substances such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and phosphate become highly concentrated in the urine, leading to the formation of solid masses.

Kidney stones can vary in size and shape, ranging from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. They may stay in the kidney or move through the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra), sometimes causing severe pain and complications.

Types of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are classified based on their composition:

  1. Calcium Stones (Most Common - 70-80%)

    • Made of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate.

    • Oxalate-rich foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate) can contribute to their formation.

  2. Uric Acid Stones (5-10%)

    • Form due to high levels of uric acid in the urine.

    • More common in people with gout, obesity, diabetes, and high-protein diets.

  3. Struvite Stones (10-15%)

    • Develop from chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs).

    • Grow rapidly and may become large (staghorn stones), causing kidney damage.

  4. Cystine Stones (Rare - Less than 1%)

    • Caused by a genetic disorder (cystinuria) that leads to excess cystine (an amino acid) in the urine.

    • Often recur throughout life.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Small kidney stones may pass without symptoms, but larger stones can cause severe pain and discomfort. Common symptoms include:

  • Severe pain (Renal Colic):

    • Sharp, cramping pain in the lower back, side, abdomen, or groin.

    • Pain may come and go in waves and change location.

  • Blood in urine (Hematuria):

    • Urine may appear pink, red, or brown.

  • Frequent and painful urination:

    • Feeling the need to urinate more often, with a burning sensation.

  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

    • May indicate infection or stone presence.

  • Nausea and vomiting

    • Caused by severe pain and kidney irritation.

  • Fever and chills

    • Indicate a possible kidney infection, requiring immediate medical attention.

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