What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys when they have difficulty eliminating waste effectively. This can happen due to a slow elimination process related to kidney issues or an increased concentration of minerals, often caused by inadequate water consumption, which overwhelms the kidneys’ ability to manage them.

Types of Kidney Stones

There are several types of kidney stones categorized by the specific salts and minerals involved, as well as the underlying causes of their formation:

  • Calcium Oxalate Stones: The most common type, these stones form when urine is high in calcium and oxalate salts. They are associated with high-oxalate foods like beets, chocolate, and spinach. If they recur frequently, further evaluation of urinary function and dietary changes may be necessary.
  • Calcium Phosphate Stones: These stones are linked to abnormalities in the urinary system and often occur alongside calcium oxalate stones. Diagnosis usually requires blood and urine tests to uncover any underlying issues.
  • Struvite Stones: More common in women, struvite stones result from certain urinary infections. If not treated, they may lead to severe infections and kidney damage.
  • Uric Acid Stones: More frequently seen in men, these stones develop in individuals with diets high in animal protein or insufficient water intake. They are also associated with gout and specific medical histories.
  • Cystine Stones: Resulting from a genetic disorder called cystinuria, cystine stones form due to excessive levels of an amino acid called cystine—an essential building block of proteins—in the urine. This can lead to stones in the kidneys, bladder, and ureters.

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What are the Common Causes of Kidney Stones?

Possible causes of kidney stones include:

  • Not drinking enough water
  • Too much or too little exercise
  • Obesity
  • Weight loss surgery
  • Eating too much salt or sugar
  • Infections
  • Family history

What are the Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones?

Sided abdominal pain is typically severe, often described by patients as the worst pain they have ever felt. This pain may be accompanied by several other symptoms:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Groin pain
  • Urine that is tinged with blood (hematuria)

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When to see a Doctor for Kidney Stones?

If you experience pain in the side of your abdomen or back, along with groin pain and blood in your urine, you should consider the possibility of kidney stones and seek medical advice.

Note: Avoid taking painkillers before seeing the doctor, as they may interfere with the examination.

How is Kidney Stones Diagnosed?

Based on the patient’s history and the doctor’s examination, the doctor may request the following diagnostic tools:

  • Blood Tests and Urinalysis: To understand the origin of the stones and detect hematuria (blood in urine).
  • X-ray: With the use of contrast to make the stones visible (KUB: Kidney, ureter, and bladder X-ray).
  • High-Resolution CT scan: From the kidneys down to the bladder to detect any abnormalities in the structure of the urinary system.

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What are the Treatment Options for Kidney Stones?

After diagnosis, the urologist will be able to recommend the best possible solution for treating kidney stones. Kidney Stone Treatments include:

Initial Management: Emphasis on hydration and medication to help stones pass naturally when stone size is small.

Surgical intervention is considered for:

  • Large stones
  • Stones obstructing urine flow
  • Signs of infection: high body temperature and increased urgency and frequency of urination

Advanced Techniques:

  • Shock Wave Lithotripsy: Non-invasive method using sound waves to break stones into smaller fragments.
  • Ureteroscopy: Insertion of an endoscope through the ureter to retrieve or destroy stones.
  • Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy/Nephrolithotripsy: Used for very large or complicated stones.

How to Prevent Kidney Stones?

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water daily to encourage frequent urination.
  • Reduce Mineral Buildup: Adequate hydration helps prevent calcium and uric acid buildup in the kidneys and urinary tract.
  • Monitor Sweating: Be cautious of activities that cause excessive sweating, such as saunas, hot yoga, and intense exercise.
  • Understand Urine Production: Excessive sweating can decrease urine output, increasing the risk of stone formation.
  • Limit Certain Beverages: Avoid sodas (especially those high in fructose), and sweetened iced teas.
  • Consult Your Urologist: Speak with a healthcare provider to determine the right hydration levels for your individual needs.

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Why Choose Reem Hospital for Kidney Stones Treatment?

At Reem Hospital Abu Dhabi, we combine advanced technology with experienced specialists to provide exceptional urological care. We use the latest diagnostic and treatment methods to tackle kidney stone problems with minimal invasiveness, ensuring a significant impact and faster recovery for our patients.

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Written By
Dr. Rahaf Wagdy

Medical Content Writer

Dr. Rahaf Wagdy is an Egyptian nuclear radiologist and medical content creator who merges her clinical expertise with digital creativity. With over five years of experience in medical content writing in both Arabic and English, she is dedicated to simplifying...

Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Hamdy Aboutaleb

Consultant Urology

Dr. Hamdy Aboutaleb is a highly accomplished Urologist with more than 25 years of experience in the field. He completed his undergraduate studies at Menoufia University in Egypt, and his academic journey continued with the successful completion of a Master’s...

Meet Our Urologists

Dr. Hamdy Aboutaleb

Urology
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Dr. Maciej Szwedowski

Urology
Consultant Urologist
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Dr. Madeh El Walili

Urology
Specialist Urology
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Kidney Stones Treatment FAQs:

  • How long does it take to recover from kidney stone surgery?

  • Can kidney stones be treated without surgery?

  • What is the fastest way to dissolve a kidney stone?

  • Can children develop kidney stones?

  • Is it possible to get rid of kidney stones naturally?

  • Can kidney stones cause long-term damage if left untreated?

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