Kidney Stones Causes and Management: Everything Covered

Posted by Dr. R. K. Mehta on 02 January 2024

Kidney stones can wreak havoc on your well-being. They can cause discomfort and pain that can be hard to ignore. Understanding the causes behind these troublesome stones and adopting effective management strategies is crucial for a healthier life. But what exactly leads to the formation of kidney stones? And how can you effectively eliminate them? 

If these questions are swirling in your mind, worry not. We've got you covered! In this blog, Apex Hospital will delve into the intricacies of kidney stone diseases. From talking about the root causes to offering valuable management tips, we're committed to providing you with all the essential information. 

Let's embark on a journey to better kidney health!

What Causes Kidney Stones? 

These pesky crystalline formations can emerge due to various factors: 

• Dehydration: Insufficient water intake reduces urine volume. It allows minerals to concentrate and form crystals in the kidneys. If you’re dehydrated, you’re at a higher risk of developing kidney stones as the concentrated urine provides an ideal environment for the aggregation of minerals, leading to stone formation.

• Dietary Factors: Foods rich in oxalates like beets, nuts, and chocolate can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Additionally, an excessive intake of animal proteins can elevate levels of uric acid and calcium, fostering an environment conducive to stone development.

• Family History: Yes, you read it right! Genetic predisposition can also play a role in kidney stone development. Individuals with a family history of kidney stones may inherit genetic traits that affect the processing of minerals in the body, increasing their susceptibility to stone development.

• Obesity: One of the major reasons that can cause kidney stones in men and women. Excess body weight can disrupt the balance of minerals and salts in the urine. It leads to higher levels of calcium in urine and reduced citrate levels. These create conditions favorable for the crystallization of minerals and the subsequent formation of kidney stones.

• Medical Conditions: Certain underlying medical issues (urinary tract infections (UTIs), cystic kidney diseases, and inflammatory bowel disorders, for example) can elevate the risk of kidney stones. These conditions can disrupt normal urinary processes, promoting the accumulation of minerals that may crystallize and develop into stones over time.

• Certain Medications: Some medications such as diuretics and antacids containing calcium are also a major risk factor for kidney stones. Experts at Apex Hospital have to say that diuretics increase urine production, potentially leading to concentrated urine. 

Excessive calcium intake from the latter, however, may contribute to the accumulation of minerals in the kidneys, fostering stone development.

• Inadequate Dietary Calcium: Surprisingly, insufficient dietary calcium can lead to an increased absorption of oxalates in the intestines. This excess oxalate is then excreted through the urine where it can combine with calcium to form calcium oxalate stones. 

For those who don’t know, it is one of the most common types of kidney stones!

• Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like hyperparathyroidism or gout disrupt the body's metabolic balance. Hyperparathyroidism increases calcium levels in the blood, potentially leading to stone formation. Gout is characterized by high levels of uric acid. It can contribute to uric acid stone development. 

Everything you need to know about kidney failures!  

What are Useful Treatments for Kidney Stone Management? 

Now that you’re aware of the causes, we bet you must be thinking, “Okay but how can we eliminate kidney stones?” Don’t worry, we have prepared a list of useful treatments for kidney stone management. 

Let’s begin talking about the best options! 

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) 

PCNL is a surgical procedure where a small incision is made to access the kidney directly. A nephroscope is inserted through the incision. This allows urologists at Apex Hospital, Sirsa to visualize and remove large or complex kidney stones. This approach is particularly effective for stones that are challenging to manage through less invasive methods.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) 

Heard about this treatment for the first time? No problem! Let us tell you that ESWL is a non-invasive technique that employs shock waves to break down kidney stones into smaller, passable pieces. During the procedure, these fragmented stones can then be naturally eliminated through the urinary tract. 

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy offers a less intrusive option for individuals with smaller stones! 

Get in touch with the best urologists in Hanumangarh

Ureteroscopy (URS) 

Literally, one of the best treatments for kidney stone management! URS involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube with a camera (better known as ureteroscope) through the urethra and bladder to reach the stones in the ureter or kidney. 

This allows our urologists to visualize and remove the stones using specialized tools. Ureteroscopy eliminates the need for external incisions and promotes a quicker recovery.

Laser Lithotripsy 

Often used in conjunction with ureteroscopy, laser lithotripsy, as the name suggests, involves using a laser to break down kidney stones into smaller fragments precisely. This targeted approach enhances the effectiveness of stone removal during procedures like URS. It allows for thorough management of stones located in the urinary tract.

Kidney Stones Causes and Management: Final Words 

Remember, managing kidney stones on time is important. This way, you can prevent complications and ensure your well-being. Whether opting for surgical interventions or less invasive approaches, seeking timely medical attention is paramount. 

Apex Hospital’s team of experienced urologists in Sirsa, Hanumangarh, Mansa, and Nohar specializes in comprehensive kidney stone management. Don't let kidney stones compromise your quality of life! Schedule a consultation with us today for personalized and effective care. 

Your journey to optimal kidney health begins here!

Also read: 

Learn about different types of kidney stones 

Major causes of male infertility

Causes, symptoms, and treatments of bladder stones

Share This Blog By