Wakad, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, care@sunmedhospital.com
Kidney Stone Treatment
Kidney stones, medically referred to as nephrolithiasis, are hard deposits that form in the kidneys and may obstruct the natural flow of urine. These stones can range in size and cause immense discomfort when they block the urinary tract. At Sunmed Hospital, we offer world-class care in managing kidney stones, ensuring a swift and effective recovery for our patients. Our approach combines cutting-edge medical expertise, advanced diagnostic techniques, and a compassionate team of specialists who understand the challenges kidney stone patients face. With a focus on personalized care, we guide you through each step, from diagnosis to treatment, providing ongoing support for long-term wellness.
Kidney stones are small, solid crystals that form in the kidneys, often from excessive formation of substances like calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and phosphate. These stones may remain in the kidneys or travel to the ureters, bladder, and urethra. Stones that are less than 3mm in size often pass unnoticed, but larger stones can cause severe pain, blockage, and potential complications. The condition is commonly associated with intense pain in the lower back, side, or groin, known as renal colic.
Calcium Stones: These are the most common type of kidney stones, and can be further divided into calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate stones.
Uric Acid Stones: Formed due to excess uric acid in the urine, these stones are common in individuals with gout, a type of arthritis.
Struvite Stones: These stones form in the presence of urinary tract infections, particularly in women.
Cystine Stones: These rare stones form due to a genetic condition, leading to excessive cystine excretion by the kidneys.
Several factors contribute to the formation of kidney stones, and understanding these can help reduce the risk of recurrence:
Dietary Factors: Excessive consumption of high-oxalate foods (e.g., spinach, beets) or a diet high in animal protein and salt can increase the risk of stone formation.
Dehydration: Low fluid intake leads to concentrated urine, which promotes the formation of stones.
Genetics: A family history of kidney stones increases your chances of developing them.
Health Conditions: Disorders like obesity, diabetes, gout, hyperparathyroidism, and Crohn’s disease can increase the risk.
Medications: Certain medications like diuretics and antacids can alter the urine’s chemical composition, increasing the risk of stone formation.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Insufficient physical activity can contribute to imbalances in calcium excretion, raising the risk of kidney stones.
Kidney stones can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
Severe Pain: Often experienced in the side or back, the pain may radiate to the groin. This is typically caused by the stone obstructing the flow of urine.
Blood in Urine (Hematuria): Stones can cause damage to the urinary tract, leading to blood in the urine, which may appear pink, red, or brown.
Fever and Chills: A fever, especially when accompanied by pain, may indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI) due to the stone.
Nausea and Vomiting: Intense pain can lead to nausea and vomiting, which may increase discomfort.
Frequent Urination: A persistent urge to urinate, along with discomfort, may occur if the stone is near the bladder.
If not treated in time, kidney stones can lead to serious complications:
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Stones can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infections.
Obstruction of Urinary Flow: Large stones or those that get stuck can obstruct urine flow, leading to intense pain and kidney damage.
Hydronephrosis: Blockages can cause swelling of the kidneys, a condition known as hydronephrosis, which can affect kidney function.
Sepsis: In rare cases, untreated kidney stones can lead to a systemic infection, sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition.
Chronic Kidney Disease: Repeated blockages or stone-related damage can lead to long-term kidney issues and reduced kidney function.
Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Here’s how kidney stones are diagnosed:
Clinical Evaluation: A thorough assessment of your symptoms, medical history, and family history helps pinpoint kidney stones.
Urine Tests: A 24-hour urine collection may reveal imbalances in calcium, oxalate, or uric acid levels, which contribute to stone formation.
Blood Tests: Blood samples can be tested for elevated calcium or uric acid levels, which are common in people with kidney stones.
Imaging Studies:
CT Scan: A non-contrast CT scan provides the most detailed images and is the gold standard for detecting kidney stones.Ultrasound: Often used as an initial imaging test, especially for pregnant women or children.X-rays (KUB): X-rays of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder can help identify larger stones.Depending on the size and location of the stone, various treatment options are available:
Conservative Management: For small stones, increased fluid intake, pain management, and medications to help pass the stone may be sufficient.
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
Ureteroscopy: A small, flexible tube is inserted through the urethra to remove or break down the stone.Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): High-frequency sound waves break stones into smaller pieces that can pass naturally.Surgical Treatment:
Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A small incision in the back is made to remove large or complex stones.Open Surgery: Reserved for very large or complicated stones that cannot be treated with less invasive methods.Preventing kidney stones involves a combination of lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments:
Hydration: Aim to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water daily to produce enough urine to prevent stone formation.
Dietary Changes:
Avoid excessive salt and oxalate-rich foods like spinach and nuts.Consume calcium-rich foods but avoid excessive calcium supplements without medical advice.Limit animal protein, as it can raise the risk of stones.Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of developing stones.
At Sunmed Hospital, we combine the latest technology and medical expertise to deliver exceptional kidney stone treatments. Our team of specialists takes a personalized approach to ensure that you receive the best possible care. From diagnosis to recovery, we are committed to providing an individualized treatment plan that meets your specific needs. We also emphasize preventive care, helping you reduce the risk of future stone formation.
Ureteroscopy is a procedure to remove or break kidney stones through a flexible tube inserted into the urinary tract, used when stones are large or cause pain.
PCNL is a surgical procedure for removing large kidney stones via a small incision in the back, usually for stones that cannot be treated with non-invasive methods.
Drink plenty of water, reduce salt and animal protein intake, and maintain a healthy diet to help prevent kidney stones.
Consult a doctor if you experience severe back pain, blood in urine, or fever with chills, indicating possible kidney stones.
Not always. Small stones may pass without pain, but larger stones can cause intense discomfort and other symptoms.
Surgery is required for large or complex stones. Smaller ones may pass on their own with medication and hydration.
Options include hydration, pain management, shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, and surgery, depending on stone size and symptoms.
Yes, kidney stones can recur if lifestyle changes aren't made. Maintaining proper hydration and a healthy diet helps prevent recurrence.
Symptoms include severe pain, blood in urine, frequent urination, and nausea. Consult a doctor for diagnosis.
Recovery depends on the treatment. Non-invasive procedures take a few days, while surgery may require 2-4 weeks.
You will be sedated or anesthetized during the procedure, with mild discomfort or blood in urine post-treatment.
Yes, small stones may pass naturally with hydration and pain management. Larger stones may require medical intervention.
