Kidney stones are rock-like crystals which form in the kidneys from the salts in the urine. If they pass into the ureter they can block the outflow of urine from the kidney, and this obstruction and pressure can cause severe pain.
Kidney stones are usually formed due to an increase in certain chemical elements/minerals, the urine becomes overloaded and stones are formed. The most common cause of stone formation is dehydration.
Kidney stones are diagnosed with a CT KUB which detects the size and location of stones.
The decision to manage the stones depends on the number, size and location of stones.
If you have a small stone (<3-4mm), and you are not bothered by them, they are often monitored. If you require surgical intervention for your stone, then your specialist will discuss the options with you. This will either be laser stone surgery , minimally invasive percuteneous surgery, and shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL).
You may be fortunate to have a stone which can be dissolved which has been proven on chemistry of the stone. This can only be completed if you have uric acid stones. Your surgeon will discuss how this is completed with you.
Once you have had one stone, you are at a 50% increase chance of developing another stone. General lifestyle modifications include:
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