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Kidney stones, also called urolithiasis, are a common urinary tract disorder that can not only be very painful, but also lead to serious complications. In this article, we will discuss the causes of kidney stones, what symptoms it can cause and what treatment methods are available for patients suffering from this condition.
What are the symptoms of kidney stones?
Kidney stones may present with various symptoms that can be very troublesome for the patient. One of the most common symptoms is sudden, sharp, colicky pain in the lumbar region that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin. This pain can be very intense and paroxysmal, and is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
For smaller stones, patients may only experience discomfort or pain when urinating. Hematuria is also common, as well as urinary tract infections, which may be caused by urine retention due to stones.
Where does kidney stone pain hurt?
The pain of kidney stones is usually located in the lumbar region, i.e. at the level of the kidneys. However, depending on the size of the stone and its location, the pain may radiate down to the lower abdomen and groin. Patients describe the pain as very intense, colicky, which increases in intensity as the stone moves through the urinary tract.
How to treat kidney stones?
Treatment of kidney stones depends on the size of the stone, its location and the severity of symptoms. In the case of small stones that do not cause bothersome symptoms, only observation and monitoring of the condition is often recommended. However, if you experience pain, urinary tract infections, or larger stones, treatment may be necessary. The most important treatment methods are:
– Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help displace the stone and relieve pain.
– Painkillers: Your doctor may prescribe painkillers to relieve your pain.
– Extracorporeal shock wave (ESWL): This is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to break up stones.
– Endoscopic lithotripsy: This involves removing the stone using a thin endoscope inserted through the urethra.
– Surgical stone removal: In some cases, surgery is necessary to remove large stones that cannot be removed by other methods.
Kidney stones – surgical treatment
In the case of larger stones or stones with an unusual location, surgical treatment may be necessary. One such procedure is endoscopic lithotripsy, which allows the stone to be removed using an endoscope. Other surgical procedures may be used if other methods fail or the stones are too large to be broken up by sound waves.
What should you not eat if you have kidney stones? diet
Diet is important in preventing the recurrence of kidney stones. There are several products and ingredients that should be avoided in the diet of patients with kidney stones. These are among others:
– Excess salt: High salt intake can lead to increased calcium excretion in the urine, which increases the risk of stone formation.
– Purines: Foods high in purines, such as red meat and some fish, may increase the risk of urolithiasis.
– Caffeine: Consuming large amounts of caffeine may increase the risk of stone formation.
– Carbonated drinks: Carbonated drinks may contain phosphate, which can contribute to the formation of stones.
Your suggestions
If you suspect or have already been diagnosed with kidney stones, it is important to consult your doctor to determine an appropriate treatment and diet plan. Each case is different, so individualization of therapy is important.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about kidney stones, check out the following articles:
– “How to prevent kidney stones: Tips and tricks” – “Symptoms of urinary tract infections and their relationship to kidney stones” – “What diagnostic tests are used for kidney stones?”
Remember that kidney stones are a serious condition that requires professional medical care. Do not ignore the symptoms and always consult a doctor if you suspect kidney stones.