Understanding Kidney Stones
Renal calculi are deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. According to the National Kidney Foundation, this condition is present in approximately one in eleven Americans. Kidney stones are often excruciatingly uncomfortable and can negatively impact a person's life. Since ancient times, kidney stones have affected humans. There is still a great deal of confusion about kidney stones and how to treat them.
What are kidney stones? Nature and Prevalence
When substances in urine are highly concentrated, they can form solid stones. Calcium, oxalate and uric acids are some of the substances that can form kidney stones over time. The size can vary from microscopic up to that of a small golf ball. Some stones can be so small that they pass through the urinary system unnoticed. The larger stones may cause severe pain and bleeding if they block urine flow.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases reports that the incidence of kidney stones has increased in the United States over the last 30 years. Nearly 1 out of 10 adults in the United States will develop a kidneystone at some stage in their life. Once a person has developed a kidney stone, it is more likely that they will develop another.
Kidney Stones: Common causes
The likelihood of kidney stones developing is affected by several factors:
- Stones can be caused by dehydration, which is when you don't drink enough water.
- Some kidney stones may be caused by diets that are high in sodium, sugar and protein.
- Obesity has been associated with an increased risk for kidney stones.
- Conditions that can cause kidney stones include renal tubular acidsosis (acidity), cystinuria (cystinuria), hyperparathyroidism, and some medications.
Common treatments for kidney stones
Treatment for kidney stones is dependent on its size, composition and whether or not it causes pain. The treatments include:
- Prescription medications and over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce the pain and help facilitate passage of smaller stones.
- Lithotripsy is a procedure that uses sound waves in order to break large stones up so they are easier to pass through your urinary tract.
- Surgery may be required to remove larger stones, or ones that cause significant symptoms.
- The ureteroscope is a thin, flexible tube that can be used to remove stones from the ureter or kidney.
Kidney Stones: Expert Opinions
The experts agree that the best way to manage kidney stones is prevention. A study in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases found that increasing the fluid intake by at least two liters a day to keep the urine volume constant can reduce the risk of recurrence of stones by half. Additionally, diet modification such as reducing animal protein and sodium intake can help to prevent stone formation.
Prevention and Natural Remedies
There are natural treatments and prevention measures available that may not require medical intervention in certain cases.
- Keep hydrated. Drinking more fluids helps to dilute substances that may form stones.
- Reduce sodium intake: High-sodium foods can cause kidney stones, as they increase the amount of calcium that the kidneys have to filter.
- Eat less animal protein. Eating too many animal proteins (such as red meat, poultry and eggs) can increase the amount of uric acids, which may lead to kidney stone formation.
While kidney stones can be painful and common, knowing their causes and the treatment options available will help you manage your condition. Staying informed of personal risk factors, and living a healthy life style can help reduce the chances of kidney stones.
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