Can Kidney Stones Lead to Kidney Damage? What You Need to Know about Kidney
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Understanding Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are a common yet painful condition affecting millions of people worldwide. These stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys and can cause severe discomfort when passing through the urinary tract. While small kidney stones may pass on their own, larger stones often require medical treatment.
If you or someone you know is suffering from kidney stones, understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatments is essential. This article will help you learn more about kidney stones and how to prevent them.
What Are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are solid masses formed from substances in the urine, such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and phosphorus. These substances crystallize and stick together, creating stones that may vary in size from tiny grains to large golf-ball-sized stones.
Types of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. They can vary in size and composition, and understanding the different types of kidney stones is important for prevention and treatment. Here are the main types of kidney stones:
1. Calcium Oxalate Stones (Most Common Type)
Cause: High levels of oxalate and calcium in urine.
Risk Factors:
Eating foods high in oxalates, such as spinach, chocolate, nuts, and tea.
Low water intake, leading to concentrated urine.
High salt and sugar intake, increasing calcium levels in urine.
Prevention: Drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet, and avoid excess salt.
2. Uric Acid Stones
Cause: High uric acid levels in the urine, leading to crystal formation.
Risk Factors:
High-protein diet (red meat, shellfish, organ meats).
Gout or metabolic disorders.
Dehydration, making urine more acidic.
Prevention:
Drink more water to keep urine diluted.
Reduce intake of purine-rich foods (red meat, fish, alcohol).
Maintain a healthy weight and avoid excessive protein intake.
3. Struvite Stones (Infection Stones)
Cause: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacteria that increase ammonia levels in urine.
Risk Factors:
Frequent UTIs.
Urinary tract abnormalities.
Prolonged catheter use.
Prevention:
Treat UTIs promptly with antibiotics.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Regular check-ups if prone to infections.
4. Cystine Stones (Rare Genetic Condition)
Cause: A genetic disorder (cystinuria), causing excess cystine (an amino acid) to leak into the urine and form stones.
Risk Factors:
Family history of cystinuria.
Recurrent kidney stones at a young age.
Prevention:
Drink plenty of water to dilute urine.
Medications may be prescribed by a kidney stone specialist.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Several factors contribute to kidney stone formation:
Dehydration – Not drinking enough water causes concentrated urine, increasing the risk of stones.
High Salt and Oxalate Diet – Excessive intake of processed foods, salty snacks, and oxalate-rich foods can lead to stone formation.
Family History – If someone in your family has had kidney stones, you are more likely to develop them.
Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyle – Being overweight and not exercising regularly can increase the risk.
Certain Medical Conditions – Diabetes, high blood pressure, and UTIs can contribute to kidney stones.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones may not show symptoms until they move within the kidney or pass into the ureter. Some common symptoms include:
Severe pain in the lower back, abdomen, or groin
Pain while urinating (burning sensation)
Blood in urine (red, pink, or brown color)
Frequent urination or feeling an urgent need to urinate
Nausea and vomiting due to pain
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek help from a kidney stone specialist in Patna, like Dr. Shashank Abhishek at Nadiad Urology and Stone Hospital Patna
Diagnosis of Kidney Stones
To confirm kidney stones, doctors use several diagnostic tests, such as:
Urine Test – Checks for substances that cause stones.
Blood Test – Identifies high calcium, oxalate, or uric acid levels.
Ultrasound or CT Scan – Helps detect the size and location of the stones.
If you need expert diagnosis and treatment, visit Nadiad Urology and Stone Hospital in Patna for advanced care.
Treatment Options for Kidney Stones
The treatment of kidney stones depends on their size, type, and severity.
Small Stones (Can Pass Naturally)
Drink More Water – Stay hydrated to flush out small stones.
Pain Relievers – Over-the-counter medications help reduce discomfort.
Medications – Some prescribed drugs help relax the urinary tract for easier stone passage.
Large or Painful Stones (Medical Treatment Required)
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) – Uses sound waves to break stones into smaller pieces.
Ureteroscopy (URS) – A thin tube is inserted to remove or break the stone.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) – A minimally invasive surgery for large stones.
For advanced and pain-free kidney stone treatment in Patna, consult Dr. Shashank Abhishek, a leading kidney stone specialist in Patna.
How to Prevent Kidney Stones?
Preventing kidney stones is easier than treating them. Follow these simple steps:
Stay Hydrated – Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.
Eat a Balanced Diet – Avoid salty, sugary, and oxalate-rich foods like spinach and chocolates.
Stay Active – Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.
Regular Check-ups – If you have a history of kidney stones, consult a urologist in Patna for preventive care.
Why Choose Dr. Shashank Abhishek for Kidney Stone Treatment in Patna?
If you are searching for the best urologist in Patna for kidney stone treatment, Dr. Shashank Abhishek at Nadiad Urology and Stone Hospital offers:
Expert Consultation – Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.
Advanced Procedures – Modern techniques like ESWL, URS, and PCNL.
Affordable Treatment – Cost-effective solutions for kidney stone removal.
📞 Book an appointment today! Get the best care for your kidney health.
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Dr. Shashank Abhishek
MBBS, MS (Urology), Leading Urologist in Patna
Nadiad Urology and Stone Hospital
Address: Near Shiv Mandir, Above ICICI Bank, Gola Road, Danapur, Patna – 801503 (Bihar)
Contact: 729-497-7787, drshashankabhishek@gmail.com
****** We offer treatment under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana ( PM-JAY )
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.