Kidney stones
Also called: Nephrolithiasis, Renal colic, Urolithiasis
Hard crystal deposits form in the kidney; when one moves into the ureter it causes excruciating colicky pain from the back to the groin.
Condition-specific references are below. Individual claims and this page have not been clinically reviewed. Read about this content.
Causes
- Supersaturated urine: calcium oxalate (most common), uric acid, struvite (infection), cystine
Risk factors
- Dehydration
- High-salt, high-animal-protein diet
- Obesity
- Family history
- Gout
- Bowel disease
- Hot climates
Symptoms
- Sudden severe colicky pain in the side radiating to the groin
- Restlessness
- Blood in urine
- Nausea and vomiting
- Urinary frequency
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Non-contrast CT (KUB)
- Urine dipstick for blood
- Blood tests (kidney function, calcium, urate)
- Stone analysis
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- NSAIDs (diclofenac) for pain
- Tamsulosin to help passage of ureteric stones
- Most stones under 5 mm pass on their own
- Potassium citrate or thiazides to prevent recurrence
Operations and procedures
- Ureteroscopy with laser
- Shockwave lithotripsy
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy for large stones
- Emergency stent or nephrostomy if infected and obstructed
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Drink enough to pass 2.5 L of urine a day
- Reduce salt and animal protein
- Normal calcium intake (low calcium diets increase stones)
- Limit oxalate-rich foods if advised
Possible complications
- Infection behind an obstructing stone (emergency)
- Kidney damage
- Recurrence (50% in 10 years)
Prevention
- Good hydration and diet
Outlook
Excellent; prevention reduces recurrence.
When to see a doctor
Seek emergency care for kidney-stone pain with fever, or pain not controlled by painkillers.
Sources and further reading
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