Dr. Sanjay K Binwal

What are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are hard deposits of salts and minerals that form in the kidneys, bladder, or at the pelvic ureteric junction. They are primarily composed of calcium, oxalate, phosphate, and occasionally cystine or xanthine. While kidney stones are more prevalent in middle-aged men, they can affect individuals of any age.

These stones can vary greatly in size, from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. Although most stones pass naturally within a few days to weeks, some can cause severe pain and may require surgical removal.

Delaying treatment can lead to complications, such as damage to surrounding tissues or obstruction of the ureteral passage, resulting in significant abdominal pain. For effective kidney stone treatment, schedule a free consultation with our urologist in Jaipur – Dr. Sanjay K Binwal today.

How are Kidney Stones formed?

Kidney stones develop when urine has a low fluid concentration, leading to an accumulation of toxic waste. The kidneys are responsible for filtering these wastes and excreting them through urine. However, when the concentration of waste increases, it can clump together and form kidney stones.

Excessive amounts of certain salts and minerals can also contribute to stone formation. Calcium stones are among the most common, accounting for about 80% of kidney stone cases. A diet high in calcium or oxalate can raise the levels of calcium oxalate in the urine.

Other causes of kidney stones include frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs), elevated uric acid levels from high animal protein consumption, and various lifestyle factors.

Types of Kidney Stones

• Calcium Stones
• Struvite Stones
• Cystine Stones
• Uric Acid Stones

Causes of Kidney Stones

• Low Fluid Intake (Dehydration)
• Excessive Calcium
• Supplementation
• High Animal Protein Diet
• Excessive Salt Consumption
• Family History
• Chronic Diarrhea

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

• Severe Pain in the Flank Area
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Painful Urination
• Foul-Smelling Urine
• Fevers and Chills
• Blood in Urine

Diagnosis of Kidney Stones

• Imaging Tests: These include abdominal ultrasound, X-rays, or MRI, which provide 3D images of the stones in the abdomen and help locate their position.
• Blood Tests: These tests analyze blood components that could contribute to kidney stone formation, such as calcium, phosphorus, uric acid, and electrolytes.
• Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine Test: This test assesses kidney function by measuring the amount of nitrogen in the blood derived from the waste product urea.
• Urinalysis: This test examines urine to detect crystals, bacteria, or other substances that may cause kidney stones or urinary tract infections.

Complications Related to Kidney Stones

Kidney stone removal surgery is generally a safe and effective procedure for providing immediate relief from pain and discomfort. However, in rare cases, complications may arise, particularly in patients with pre-existing medical conditions or co-morbidities. Besides typical side effects like pain, vomiting, and blood in the urine, potential complications include:

• Severe Infections: This can include septicemia (blood poisoning), which is life-threatening and may necessitate a blood transfusion.
• Kidney Damage: Surgery can sometimes cause scarring or damage to the kidneys, potentially leading to permanent renal failure.
• Loss of Kidney Function: Patients with existing health issues may experience a decline in kidney function and might require kidney removal (nephrectomy).
• Bladder Blockage: Large stones that pass into the bladder but become lodged in the urethra can cause bladder blockage, leading to painful urinary retention.

When to Visit a Kidney Stone Specialist in Jaipur?

Consult a urologist or kidney stone specialist in Jaipur if you experience severe, unrelenting pain that prevents you from finding a comfortable position. Accompanying symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, or chills also warrant a consultation.

Immediate medical attention is necessary if you notice blood in your urine or face significant difficulty during urination.

Treatment Options for Kidney Stone Removal

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes: For small stones, increasing fluid intake and making dietary adjustments can help the stones pass naturally. Avoiding foods high in oxalates and reducing sodium and animal protein can be beneficial.

Medications: Pain relievers and medications that help break down stones or prevent new ones from forming may be prescribed. Alpha-blockers can help relax the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for stones to pass.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This non-invasive procedure uses shock waves to break kidney stones into smaller pieces, which can then pass more easily through the urinary tract.

Ureteroscopy: A thin tube with a camera is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the ureter. The stones are then either removed or broken up using lasers.

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): For larger stones, a small incision is made in the back, and a tube is inserted into the kidney to remove or break up the stones using special instruments.

Surgical Removal: In rare cases where other methods are ineffective or not possible, open surgery may be required to remove large or complex stones.