Kidney stones are a common medical condition that affects millions of people across the world. The pain associated with this condition can be excruciating, and the treatment process is often long and arduous. But what exactly is a kidney stone? In this article, we will explore what kidney stones are, their causes, and the stages of passing a kidney stone. We’ll also explain the various treatments available for managing this condition and how to prevent them from forming in the first place. Read on to learn more about kidney stones and their management.
What are kidney stones and their causes?
Kidney stones are small, hard deposits of mineral and acid salts that form on the inner surfaces of the kidneys. Over time, these deposits can build up and form a stone-like mass. Kidney stones vary in size and can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a pearl.
There are several types of kidney stones, but the most common type is made up of calcium oxalate crystals. Other types of kidney stones include uric acid stones, struvite stones, and cystine Stones.
Kidney stones develop when there is an imbalance in the normal levels of water, minerals, and acids in the urine. This imbalance can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, dehydration, certain medical conditions, and certain medications.
Dietary factors that may contribute to kidney stone formation include high levels of protein, sodium, sugar, or oxalate in the diet. Drinking too little water can also lead to dehydration which can increase the risk for kidney stone formation.
Certain medical conditions such as gout or renal tubular acidosis can also increase the risk for stone formation. And finally, taking certain medications such as diuretics (water pills), calcium supplements, antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum hydroxide can also promote stone formation.
The different stages of passing kidney stones
There are different stages of passing kidney stones, depending on the size of the stone.
The first stage is when the stone is small enough to pass through the urinary tract on its own. This can happen without any pain or discomfort.
The second stage is when the stone is larger and becomes stuck in the ureter (the tube that drains urine from the kidney to the bladder). This can cause pain in the lower back or abdomen.
The third stage is when the stone breaks into smaller pieces and passes through the ureter. This can also cause pain and discomfort.
The fourth stage is when the stone becomes lodged in the urethra (the tube that drains urine from the bladder to outside of the body). This can cause severe pain and difficulty urinating.
Home treatment and medical treatment for kidney stones
Home treatment and medical treatment for kidney stones
If you have kidney stones, home treatment may help prevent them from getting larger and becoming more painful. Home treatment includes:
Drinking fluids. Passing a small stone can be extremely painful. To help ease the pain and pass the stone more quickly, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids, including water, juice, and clear soups.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers. These include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve).
Applying heat to the area where the stone is located. Heating pads or warm baths may help relax the muscles in that area and ease the pain. If you have blood in your urine, don’t use heat until the bleeding has stopped.
Medical treatment for kidney stones may be necessary if:
You’re unable to pass a stone on your own
You experience severe pain
You have multiple stones
Your stone is large — six millimeters (mm) or larger — which increases your risk of developing blockages, infection, or kidney damage
You have a history of stones and are at risk for developing more
The best foods to eat to prevent kidney stones
A kidney stone is a hard mass that forms in the kidney from calcium, oxalate, and phosphate. These minerals are normally found in the urine but can form stones when they become concentrated. Stones can also form from uric acid, which is a waste product from the breakdown of proteins.
The best foods to eat to prevent kidney stones are those that are high in fiber and low in oxalates. Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans. Foods low in oxalates include dairy products and meats. Drinking plenty of water will also help to prevent stones from forming.
Conclusion
Kidney stones can be a painful and lingering medical condition that should not be ignored. Although passing them can take some time, understanding the stages of kidney stone passage can help you better understand what to expect during the process. By following your Direct Primary Care advice and taking preventive measures such as drinking plenty of water, you can reduce the risk of developing kidney stones in the future. With this knowledge in mind, we wish you good health and luck with your journey toward kidney stone-free living!