Kidney Stones Treatment

Kidney stones can be a common but painful condition affecting many individuals. The good news is that with proper care and treatment, you can find relief and prevent future occurrences. At Southwest Kidney Institute (SKI), we ensure our patients feel supported and confident throughout their treatment journey.

Kidney stones are hard clusters of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. These stones vary in size and shape, ranging from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. They are often caused by dehydration, certain medical conditions, or dietary factors. While they can cause discomfort, most kidney stones can be treated effectively, especially with early detection and care.

While some kidney stones may pass unnoticed, others can cause a range of symptoms. Here’s how to recognize if you might be experiencing kidney stones:

• Intense pain in the back, sides, lower abdomen, or groin area.  
• Discomfort while urinating or a sudden, frequent urge to urinate.  
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.  

• Blood in the urine (hematuria).  
• Nausea or vomiting  
• Fever and chills, particularly if an infection is present.  

Kidney stones can develop due to several factors. Understanding the root cause can help in managing and preventing them. Some of the common causes include:

• Dehydration: Failing to drink enough water can cause urine to become concentrated, increasing the risk of kidney stone formation.
• Diet: High levels of oxalates (found in certain foods like spinach and nuts), salt, or protein can contribute to stone formation.
• Medical conditions: Conditions like hyperparathyroidism or urinary tract infections (UTIs) may increase the risk of kidney stones.
• Genetic factors: If kidney stones run in your family, you may have a higher chance of developing them.
• Medications: Certain drugs may contribute to an increased risk of kidney stone formation.

At SKI, we tailor our kidney stone treatments based on the size, type, and location of the stones, as well as the patient’s overall health. Here’s how we approach treatment:

• Pain management: We ensure you are comfortable by prescribing medications to relieve pain and help the stone pass more easily.
• Increased fluid intake: Drinking more water helps flush out smaller stones naturally.
• Medications: Certain medications can help dissolve the stones or prevent new ones from forming.
• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): A non-invasive treatment that uses shock waves to break stones into smaller, passable pieces.
• Ureteroscopy: For larger stones, a small scope may be inserted through the urethra to remove or break them apart.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: In rare cases, surgical removal of the stones through a small incision may be necessary.

If you suspect you may have kidney stones, seeking medical advice promptly is important. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Medical history and physical examination: Understanding your symptoms and any prior history of kidney stones.
• Imaging tests: Tests such as ultrasounds, CT scans, or X-rays can help identify the location, size, and number of stones.
• Urine and blood tests: These tests can detect any underlying conditions that may contribute to stone formation, such as elevated calcium or oxalate levels.

Once you have experienced kidney stones, preventing future occurrences is key. Consider these easy steps to reduce your risk:

• Keep yourself well-hydrated: Consistently drinking water throughout the day helps dilute urine and reduces the chances of stone formation.
• Monitor your diet: Reduce intake of foods high in oxalates, sodium, and animal protein. Incorporating a balanced diet is crucial.
• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications that help prevent future stone formation, depending on the type of stones you have had.
• Regular check-ups: Routine urine and blood tests can detect any abnormalities early on, helping prevent new stones.

At Southwest Kidney Institute, we understand how distressing kidney stones can be. Our team of specialists is committed to delivering compassionate care, with a strong focus on the needs and well-being of our patients. No matter your concerns, we are here to guide you through each step of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Trust us to help you get back to living a healthy, stone-free life. Request an appointment with our top-rated providers today