The Causes and Treatments of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are not really stones, but are hard masses that occur when crystals separate from the urine within the urinary tract. The urine produced contains certain chemicals that are supposed to prevent or stop the kidney stones from forming, but sometimes fail to do so.

Kidney stones contain many types and combinations of chemicals depending on the type of stone that forms. The most common type of stone is made up of calcium, combined with either oxalate or phosphate. Another kidney stone that is not as common, forms due to an infection in the urinary tract, and is called a struvite or infection stone. There are two other types of stones, one being called a uric acid stone which is uncommon, and the other being a rare stone called a cystine.

Kidney stone symptoms are not really considered symptoms. The kidney stones are already present and should be diagnosed and treated as soon as these "symptoms" start. When a kidney stone appears you may feel extreme pain, which is caused by the stone becoming lodged in the urinary tract where it can block the urine flow. Sharp cramping pain in the back and sides around the area where the kidneys are located, and in the lower abdomen are normally also present with a kidney stone. Some people also experience nausea and vomiting with the other "symptoms". Pain caused by the stones can possibly spread and move into the groin area. A person may notice blood in their urine. The blood is caused by the body trying to move the stone in order to push it out, or as some say, pass the stone. As the body moves the stone closer to the bladder the feeling of having to urinate may become more frequent. A burning sensation during urination may also appear.

Kidney stones are diagnosed through x-rays, ultrasounds, blood and urine tests. The stones can be caused by many factors including heredity, diet, over the counter products, and geographical locations where the weather can get extremely warm and cause dehydration. Depending on the type of stone, your doctor may talk to you about avoiding certain types of food. For example, with calcium oxalate stones you may be informed to avoid certain oxalate foods. These foods include rhubarb, spinach, beets, Swiss chard, wheat germ, soybean crackers, peanuts, okra, chocolate, grapes, celery, strawberries, liver, and many others.

Kidney stones can be treated many different ways. Some can be treated with pain medications and drinking 2 to 3 quarts of water per day. Surgery is not usually needed, but could become an option if the stone does not pass in a reasonable amount of time and causes constant pain, if the stone is too large to pass on its own, or if it causes damage to the kidney tissue. An ESWL, or Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy is the most common treatment used. Shock waves are created outside of the body and travel through the skin and tissue causing the stones to break down, making them easily pass in the urine.