Our Hospitals

Find a Doctor

International Patients

080 61 222 000

kidney Stone

Introduction

Kidney stones are solid deposits of minerals and salts that develop in the kidneys. They can differ in size and often cause intense discomfort when moving through the urinary tract. Typical kidney stone symptoms include sharp pain in the lower back or abdomen, blood in the urine, and frequent urges to urinate. Treatment varies based on the size and type of the stone, ranging from medications to minimally invasive procedures. Preventing kidney stones involves staying well-hydrated and making dietary adjustments.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones (also called renal calculi) are solid masses formed from crystallized minerals and salts in the kidneys. While the kidneys filter waste from the blood and produce urine, certain conditions can cause these waste substances to clump together and form stones.

Depending on their size, kidney stones may pass naturally or require medical intervention if they block the urinary tract or cause intense pain.

Types of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are classified based on their chemical composition. Each type forms under specific conditions and has distinct characteristics. Understanding these types helps in determining the appropriate treatment and prevention strategies.

Calcium Stones

These are the most common type of kidney stones, making up about 80% of all cases. They can be further divided into two subtypes:

Calcium Oxalate Stones: These are the most prevalent form of calcium stones. They develop when there is an excess of oxalate in the urine, often due to dietary factors (like excessive spinach or rhubarb intake), dehydration, or certain medical conditions.
Calcium Phosphate Stones: Less common than oxalate stones, these form in alkaline urine. They are often associated with metabolic conditions such as renal tubular acidosis or certain medications.

Struvite Stones

Struvite stones are often linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacteria that release urease. This enzyme raises the pH of the urine, making it more alkaline, which creates an ideal environment for these stones to form. These stones grow quickly and can become quite large, sometimes forming a "staghorn" shape that takes the shape of the kidney's internal structures.

Common in individuals with recurrent UTIs or long-term use of catheters.
Composed of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate.

Uric Acid Stones

These stones form in people with high levels of uric acid in their urine. Risk factors include:

A high-protein diet, particularly one rich in red meat and shellfish.
Medical conditions like gout or chronic diarrhoea, which lower urine pH, making it more acidic.
Dehydration, especially in hot climates or during rigorous physical activity.

Cystine Stones

Cystine stones are rare and caused by a genetic disorder called cystinuria, where the kidneys excrete excessive amounts of cystine, a naturally occurring amino acid, into the urine. Cystine is less soluble in water and tends to crystallize, forming stones.

These stones tend to recur and are challenging to manage.
Symptoms often begin in childhood or adolescence due to the inherited nature of the condition.

Phosphate Stones

Phosphate stones, like calcium phosphate stones, form in alkaline urine. They can result from certain kidney disorders, dietary habits, or chronic infections that alter urine pH. These stones often coexist with other stone types, particularly struvite.

Xanthine Stones

Xanthine stones are extremely rare and occur due to a genetic enzyme deficiency called xanthine oxidase deficiency, which prevents the proper breakdown of xanthine, leading to its accumulation in the urine. They are often observed in individuals with inherited metabolic disorders.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

The symptoms depend on the size and location of the stone. Common symptoms of kidney stones include:

Severe kidney stone pain, often described as sharp and cramping, radiating from the back or side to the lower abdomen and groin.
Blood in urine (haematuria), giving it a pink, red, or brown colour.
Frequent urge to urinate but passing small amounts.
Nausea and vomiting due to pain.
Fever and chills if there’s a kidney infection like pyelonephritis.
Kidney stone pain area typically includes the lower back, sides, or groin.

Causes of Kidney Stones

Several factors can increase the risk of developing kidney stones:

Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake concentrates urine, making stone formation more likely.
Diet: High intake of oxalate-rich foods (like spinach), salt, and protein can lead to stones.
Genetics: A family history of kidney stones increases your risk.
Medical Conditions: Kidney diseases, conditions like hyperparathyroidism, urinary tract infections or gout contribute to stone formation.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity and sedentary habits can also elevate risk.

Diagnosis of Kidney Stones

To diagnose kidney stones, a doctor may recommend:

1. Urinalysis

A urinalysis checks for crystals, blood, or infection in the urine. Crystals can indicate the type of stone, while blood in the urine may result from stones irritating the urinary tract. Signs of infection, like white blood cells or bacteria, could point to conditions like struvite stones.

2. Imaging Tests

Imaging locates and measures kidney stones. Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive option that can detect blockages, while CT scans provide highly detailed images and are the most accurate method for spotting stones. X-rays (KUB) may also be used, though they are less effective for small or uric acid stones.

3. Blood Tests

Blood tests identify factors contributing to stone formation, such as high calcium (hypercalcemia) or uric acid levels, which are linked to calcium and uric acid stones respectively.

4. Stone Analysis

If you pass a stone, it can be analysed to determine its composition. This helps in planning personalized prevention strategies.

Treatment and Management

The treatment for kidney stones depends on their size, type, and location:

Small Stones: Drinking plenty of water may help pass smaller stones naturally.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter or prescription medications may help relieve kidney stone pain relief.
Medical Procedures:
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This is a non-invasive procedure. In this procedure high-energy sound waves are used to break kidney stones into smaller pieces. This makes them easier to pass through the urinary tract naturally. It is commonly used for medium-sized stones.
- Ureteroscopy: In this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the ureter or kidney. The stone can be either removed directly or broken into smaller pieces using a laser. It’s effective for stones located in the ureter or kidney.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for larger or more complex stones. A small incision is made in the back to insert instruments directly into the kidney to remove or break up the stone. It is typically used when other treatments are not suitable.
Medication: Certain drugs may prevent stone formation or help dissolve specific types.

Prevention of Kidney Stones

To reduce the risk of developing kidney stones:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to dilute urine.
Dietary Changes: Reduce sodium, oxalate-rich foods, and animal protein. Increase intake of citrus fruits like lemons.
Regular Check-ups: Monitor underlying medical conditions like gout or hyperparathyroidism.

When to See a Doctor?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe pain that doesn’t go away.
Blood in the urine.
Signs of infection, such as fever or chills.
Difficulty passing urine.

You are welcome to book an appointment with a urologist or nephrologist at a SPARSH Hospital near you. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure a quicker recovery.

FAQ's

Can one live with kidney stones?

Yes, many people live with small kidney stones that don’t cause symptoms. However, regular monitoring and preventive measures are essential to avoid complications.

What dissolves kidney stones fast?

Certain medications prescribed by a doctor can help dissolve uric acid stones. Drinking plenty of water and consuming citrate-rich foods like lemons may also help.

What are the worst foods for kidney stones?

Foods high in oxalates (like spinach, beets, and chocolate), salt, and excessive animal protein can contribute to stone formation.

Which exercise is good for kidney stones?

Mild to moderate physical activities, like walking or yoga, can help improve kidney function and may aid in passing small stones.

Which drink reduces kidney stones?

Citrus drinks like lemonade or orange juice can help by increasing citrate levels in urine, which prevents stone formation.

What is the best sleeping position for kidney stones?

Sleeping on the side opposite to the kidney stone pain area may help alleviate discomfort. However, consult a doctor for specific advice.