28 May, 2025
By Admin
Urinary stones, also known as kidney stones, are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form in the urinary tract. These stones can develop in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra, causing significant pain and potential complications. If left untreated, they can lead to urinary blockages and infections. At Pratham Urology, we specialize in diagnosing and treating urinary stones effectively, using both surgical and non-surgical approaches to provide long-term relief.
Causes of Urinary Stones
Urinary stones form due to various factors, including:
- Dehydration: Lack of sufficient water intake leads to concentrated urine, increasing the risk of stone formation
- Dietary Factors: High levels of oxalates, sodium, and protein can contribute to stone development
- Genetic Predisposition: A family history of kidney stones increases the likelihood of recurrence
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain conditions like hyperparathyroidism, obesity, and urinary tract infections can trigger stone formation
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can promote calcium buildup in the urine, leading to stone formation
Symptoms of Urinary Stones
The symptoms of urinary stones depend on their size, location, and severity. Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain in the lower back, side, or abdomen
- Painful urination or burning sensation
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills (if infection is present)
Diagnosis of Urinary Stones
At Pratham Urology, we use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm the presence of urinary stones:
- Urinalysis: Detects infection, blood, or abnormal minerals in urine
- Ultrasound: Identifies stones and their location
- CT scan: Provides detailed imaging to determine stone size and position
- X-ray (KUB): Used to locate calcium-based stones
- Blood Tests: Checks for underlying conditions like high calcium or uric acid levels
Treatment Options for Urinary Stones
Medications & Hydration
For small urinary stones, increased water intake and prescribed medications can help flush them out naturally. Medications may include:
- Pain relievers: To manage discomfort during passage
- Alpha-blockers: To relax the ureter muscles, easing stone movement
- Diuretics: To reduce mineral concentration in urine
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
ESWL is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to break larger stones into smaller fragments, allowing them to pass through urine.
Ureteroscopy (URS)
A thin, flexible scope is inserted through the urethra to locate and remove or break stones using a laser. This is ideal for stones in the ureters or bladder.
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
For larger kidney stones, a small incision is made in the back, and a nephroscope is used to remove the stone directly.
Preventing Urinary Stones
Preventing urinary stones involves lifestyle modifications and dietary changes:
- Drink Plenty of Water: Aim for at least 2.5-3 liters daily to dilute urine and flush out minerals
- Reduce Sodium Intake: High salt levels increase calcium excretion, promoting stone formation
- Limit Oxalate-Rich Foods: Spinach, nuts, and chocolate contain oxalates that contribute to stones
- Increase Citrate Intake: Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges help prevent crystal formation
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a risk factor for urinary stones
Why Choose Pratham Urology?
At Pratham Urology, we provide specialized and advanced care for urinary stone treatment under the expertise of Dr. Kalpesh Kapadia. With state-of-the-art technology and a patient-centric approach, we focus on offering personalized treatment plans, minimizing discomfort, and preventing recurrence. Our comprehensive care and modern treatment techniques make us the trusted choice for urinary stone management in Ahmedabad.
Conclusion
Urinary stones can cause severe discomfort and complications if not treated promptly. With proper diagnosis and treatment at Pratham Urology, patients can experience relief and prevent future occurrences. Whether you need medication, laser stone removal, or minimally invasive procedures, our expert team is here to help.
