Kidney stones are the result of nephrolithiasis, the crystallization of minerals and salts that happens within the kidneys.
Kidney stones come in various types. The ones that are currently recognized by medical experts are the following:
Calcium Stones
These are made of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate. Oxalate is a natural substance found in food and is also produced by the liver. Phosphate is more common in renal tubular acidosis and other metabolic conditions. High doses of vitamin D and other dietary factors, metabolic disorders, some forms of medication, and intestinal bypass surgery can increase the concentration of these compounds.
Uric Acid Stones
These form in people who are dehydrated, do not drink enough fluids, or lose too much fluid regularly. Those who have protein-rich diets, gout, and genetic disposition are also at risk of developing these stones.
Cystine Stones
These form in people who suffer from cystinuria, a hereditary disorder that causes the excessive excretion of certain amino acids.
Struvite Stones
These develop in response to an infection, commonly urinary tract infections (UTI). These can grow quickly and without warning.
If you experience these symptoms, you might have kidney stones. You should seek medical aid at once.
- Pain radiating to the groin or lower abdomen
- Sharp pain below the ribs, side, or back
- Pain during urination
- Debilitating pain that makes sitting still or comfortably difficult
- Pink, red, or brown urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Cloudy urine
- Urine that emits a foul smell
- Urinating in small amounts
- Fever and chills (a sign of infection)
Some kidney stones are easily passed through urination. However, some may become lodged in the kidney, bladder, or urinary tract, causing blockage and infection. Surgery will be required. Most kidney stones will leave no lasting damage when they are removed in a timely fashion.
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