Kidney Stones: Prevention, Symptoms, and Treatment

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form inside your kidneys. They are composed of minerals and salts found in urine. While common, the pain from a kidney stone can be severe, causing intense worry and discomfort. Understanding what kidney stones are and how they are handled is the first step toward feeling better. We want to empower our community with clear, trusted information about this condition.

If you are experiencing severe, sudden pain or have a fever along with symptoms, please do not hesitate to seek help. For a life-threatening medical emergency, call 911 immediately. If you need to speak with a healthcare professional now, contact us via our online form or call (661) 949-5000.

What Are Kidney Stones and Why Do They Hurt?

Kidney stones begin when your urine contains too many crystal-forming substances. These substances, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, can accumulate and form crystals. Over time, they create deposits that range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball in diameter. When a stone moves from the kidney into the narrow tubes that connect the kidney to the bladder, it can cause a blockage in these tubes. This blockage is what leads to the severe, cramping pain often associated with kidney stones.

The pain usually starts in your back or side, below the ribs. It often comes in waves and changes location as the stone moves along. Many people describe it as one of the worst pains they have ever experienced. Other common symptoms include:

• Sharp pain in the side and back, often radiating to the lower abdomen.
• Pain during urination.
• Urine that looks pink, red, or brown from blood.
• Feeling sick to your stomach or vomiting.

Simple Steps for Prevention

The most effective way to prevent kidney stones is to make a few simple changes to your daily routine. Since the rocks are made from concentrated materials, the goal is to keep your urine diluted. Prevention can often be managed at home, but it's always a good idea to discuss these changes with your doctor first. Being proactive is the best way to maintain your health and avoid the pain of passing a stone.

Here are a few trusted, comprehensive steps to help keep your kidneys healthy:

• Drink Enough Water: This is the most critical prevention step. Aim to drink enough fluids, mostly water, to produce clear or very light-colored urine throughout the day.
• Watch Your Salt Intake: High sodium levels can increase the amount of calcium your kidneys filter. Try to limit processed and packaged foods, which are often high in salt.
• Balance Calcium and Oxalate: If your stone is made of calcium oxalate, your doctor may suggest reducing foods high in oxalate, such as rhubarb, spinach, and nuts. However, do not stop consuming calcium entirely without medical guidance, as calcium is necessary for bone health.

Treatment Options Explained

When a kidney stone is diagnosed, your doctor will determine the best treatment plan based on its size, location, and the severity of your symptoms. For small stones, the treatment may be as simple as waiting. The stone may pass naturally in your urine, often within a few days or weeks. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to help manage the pain.

For larger stones that cannot pass on their own, more advanced procedures are needed. These methods are designed to break the stone into smaller pieces or remove it entirely. This is where the dedicated resources of a full-service healthcare provider become essential. They can offer various treatment options, ranging from sound waves used to shatter the stone to minor surgical procedures.

When dealing with more complex kidney health issues, it's reassuring to know you have access to a full range of comprehensive medical services. This includes specialized physicians, like urologists, who focus on the urinary tract. Antelope Valley Medical Center offers these specialized care options to the residents of the Antelope Valley. No matter the situation, you can feel confident in the level of care available to you right here in your community.

When is it Time to See a Urologist?

While a small stone may pass unnoticed, there are signs that you need to see a specialist right away. Pain that is so severe you can't get comfortable is a serious signal. Additionally, if you develop a fever or chills along with the pain, this could indicate the presence of an infection, which is a medical emergency. Kidney stone pain can be highly unpredictable, making it difficult to decide if you should seek care.

Never hesitate to reach out if you have concerns about your kidney health. Remember, a healthcare visit is never an inconvenience when it comes to your well-being. A urologist is a doctor specially trained in diseases of the urinary tract and can provide the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

You should seek professional evaluation if you experience:

• Pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
• Blood in your urine, which may look pink, red, or brown.
• Severe pain that does not go away with over-the-counter medication.
• Difficulty or inability to pass urine.

When you choose a comprehensive medical center in Lancaster, CA, you are choosing dedicated care that is close to home. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind and access to the specialized treatment you need.

Get the Dedicated Care You Need

Don't let the fear or uncertainty of kidney stone pain keep you from seeking professional help. Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward relief. We are committed to providing trusted, comprehensive care for you and your family. If you are worried about kidney stone symptoms or want to learn more about prevention, our team is here to help.

To connect with a specialist or learn more about the advanced care options available, please visit our online contact form or call us directly at (661) 949-5000.