What are Kidney Stones?
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According to the National Kidney Foundation, more than 500,000 people find themselves in the emergency room each year due to kidney stones. With such shockingly high numbers, it is essential to understand what exactly causes these painful mineral deposits and how you can tell if you’re passing one.
Causes
Your kidneys are responsible for filter waste out of your blood and remove it from your body through your urine. When everything is functioning properly, your kidneys filter out and maintain your body’s sodium (salt), potassium, and calcium levels. Once this waste is filtered, your urine passes through the rest of your urinary tract and exits the body through your urethra.
When there is too much waste present in your urine and too little liquid, the waste begins to crystallize. Once formed, the stone may stay in the kidney or travel further down the urinary tract. Once it becomes stuck, it can cause a backup of urine, resulting in mild discomfort or intense pain.
You’re at an increased risk of having kidney stones if:
- You’ve had a kidney stone in the past.
- Someone in your immediate family has had kidney stones.
- You have a low water intake.
- You have a diet that is high in protein, sodium, or sugar.
- You are overweight or obese.
- You have cystic kidney disease.
- You have a condition that causes inflammation or irritation in your bowels.
Signs & Symptoms of a Kidney Stone
Although smaller kidney stones may move through the urinary tract and exit the body without any symptoms, the following symptoms may suggest that your body is trying to pass a kidney stone:
- Pain while urinating.
- Blood in your urine
- Pain in your lower back or abdomen.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Pain while urinating.
- Blood in your urine
- Pain in your lower back or abdomen.
- Nausea or vomiting.
Urological Care in Bishop, CA
At Northern Inyo Healthcare District, our team of urologists has the expertise and knowledge necessary to diagnose and treat issues of the urinary tract and system, including the kidneys and bladder, as well as male reproductive organs. From simple UTI’s to prostate cancer, we’re here to help.
For more information about the Urology services at Northern Inyo Healthcare District or to schedule an appointment, call (760) 873-2080.
