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Kidney stones, also called urolithiasis, are a common urinary tract disorder that can cause significant discomfort and pain.
In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms and various treatments for this condition.
What are the symptoms of kidney stones?
The symptoms of kidney stones may be diverse and depend on the size, location and mobility of the stone. The most common symptoms are:
- Pain in the lumbar region that may radiate to the abdomen and groin.
- Renal colic is a sharp, paroxysmal pain that occurs as a result of the movement of a stone in the urinary tract.
- Pain when urinating.
- Vomiting and nausea.
- Hematuria, i.e. the presence of blood in the urine.
- Frequent urination or difficulty urinating.
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially pain in the lumbar region, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Where does kidney stone pain hurt?
Pain from kidney stones is usually located in the lumbar region, on one side of the body. It may be a pain like a sharp sting or colic, which intensifies when the stone moves in the urinary tract. The pain may also radiate to the lower abdomen and groin, which is why patients often confuse it with other conditions such as appendicitis or a urinary tract infection.
How to treat kidney stones?
Treatment of kidney stones depends on the size of the stone, its location and symptoms. Possible treatments include:
- Monitoring and waiting – for small stones that do not cause severe symptoms, your doctor may only recommend regular monitoring.
- Drug treatment – some medications can help dissolve or help the stone move more easily.
- Fiber optic ureteroscopy – a procedure that allows the stone to be removed using a thin ureteroscope.
- Renal lithotripsy – involves crushing the stone using shock waves.
- Surgical stone removal – For large or difficult to access stones, surgical removal may be necessary.
The choice of treatment method depends on the individual circumstances of each patient and is determined by the doctor.
Kidney stones – surgical treatment
Surgical treatments such as ureteroscopy and renal lithotripsy are often effective options, especially for stones that cannot be removed naturally. These procedures are performed by experienced specialists and are aimed at effectively removing stones from the urinary tract.
What should you not eat if you have kidney stones? diet
Diet can play an important role in managing kidney stones. There are several products and substances that you should limit or avoid to reduce the risk of developing new stones. Belong to them:
- Salt – limiting your salt intake can help reduce the amount of salt in your urine, which reduces the risk of stone formation.
- Oxalates – Some foods, such as spinach, rhubarb, nuts, and chocolate, contain oxalates, which may contribute to stone formation. Limiting your intake of these foods may be beneficial.
- Purines – Foods high in purines, such as red meat and alcohol, may increase the risk of uric acid formation and urate stones.
A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, low-fat dairy products and adequate fluids can help prevent kidney stones.
Your suggestions
If you have kidney stones or are experienced in treating them, it is worth consulting with your doctor or nutritionist to adapt your diet and eating habits to your individual needs.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about kidney stones, we recommend reading other articles on this topic and consulting a doctor who can provide you with detailed information and answers to all your questions about this condition.
It is worth remembering that kidney stones are a condition that can be managed and treated, and earlier diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.