Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys when certain substances in the urine—such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid—become highly concentrated and crystallize. These stones can vary in size, ranging from tiny particles that pass naturally through the urinary tract to larger stones that may cause significant pain, blockage, or infection.
Kidney stones may remain in the kidneys or travel through the urinary tract to the ureters and bladder. When a stone moves through these narrow passages, it can lead to severe discomfort and urinary complications. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important to prevent long-term kidney damage and relieve symptoms.
Kidney stones can develop due to several factors related to lifestyle, diet, and underlying medical conditions. Common risk factors include:
Dehydration or insufficient fluid intake
Diets high in salt, sugar, or animal protein
Obesity and metabolic disorders
Family history of kidney stones
Certain medications
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Medical conditions such as gout or hyperparathyroidism
Not drinking enough water is one of the most common causes, as concentrated urine allows minerals to crystallize more easily.
Small stones may pass through the urinary tract without causing noticeable symptoms. However, larger stones or those that move into the ureters can cause intense pain and other symptoms, including:
Severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
Pain that radiates to the groin area
Blood in the urine (hematuria)
Frequent urge to urinate
Burning sensation during urination
Nausea and vomiting
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Fever and chills in cases of infection
The pain associated with kidney stones, often referred to as renal colic, may come in waves and vary in intensity.
Diagnosing kidney stones typically involves a combination of medical evaluation and imaging tests. Doctors may use the following diagnostic methods:
Urinalysis can detect blood, infection, or excess minerals that may lead to stone formation.
Blood tests help identify high levels of calcium, uric acid, or other substances that contribute to stone development.
Ultrasound, CT scans, or X-rays can determine the size, location, and number of stones in the urinary tract.
The treatment approach depends on the size, location, and type of kidney stone, as well as the patient’s overall health.
Small stones may pass naturally by drinking large amounts of water to help flush them through the urinary system.
Doctors may prescribe pain relievers and medications that relax the ureter muscles, making it easier for the stone to pass.
This non-invasive treatment uses sound waves to break kidney stones into smaller fragments that can be passed naturally through urine.
A thin scope is inserted through the urinary tract to locate and remove or break the stone.
For larger stones, a minimally invasive surgical procedure may be performed to remove the stone directly from the kidney.
Preventing kidney stones is often possible with lifestyle changes and medical guidance. Recommended preventive measures include:
Drinking sufficient water throughout the day
Reducing salt and excessive animal protein consumption
Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
Managing underlying health conditions
Following dietary recommendations provided by a healthcare professional
At Fertilis, kidney stone diagnosis and treatment are performed using advanced imaging techniques and modern minimally invasive procedures. Our experienced urology specialists evaluate each patient individually and create personalized treatment plans aimed at removing stones effectively while minimizing discomfort and recovery time.
With a patient-focused approach and modern medical technology, Fertilis aims to help patients restore urinary health and prevent future stone formation.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter future.