Kidney stones are solid deposits of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. These stones can cause a variety of health issues, affecting both your physical well-being and quality of life. If left untreated, kidney stones can lead to complications that could significantly impact your overall health. At UMC Victoria Hospital, we are dedicated to helping patients understand kidney stones, manage symptoms, and receive the best treatment options available.
Kidney stones vary in size, from tiny grains to larger stones that can block the urinary tract. Depending on their size and location, they can cause a range of symptoms. Common signs include:
One of the most prominent symptoms of kidney stones is sharp, sudden pain, often referred to as renal colic. This pain occurs when a stone moves through the narrow ureter, causing intense discomfort. The severity of the pain may fluctuate as the stone shifts, making it one of the most painful urological conditions.
When kidney stones remain untreated, they can cause serious damage to your kidneys. The most immediate danger is obstruction, where stones block the flow of urine. This obstruction can lead to swelling of the kidneys (hydronephrosis), which causes pain and may reduce kidney function over time.
In severe cases, untreated kidney stones may lead to chronic kidney disease. Recurrent stones can damage kidney tissue, scarring the organ and leading to decreased kidney function. If both kidneys are affected, this can result in kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Kidney stones also increase the risk of infections in the urinary tract. A stone that obstructs urine flow creates an environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and, in severe cases, kidney infections (pyelonephritis). These infections can spread to the bloodstream, causing life-threatening sepsis if not treated promptly. At UMC Victoria Hospital, we emphasize the importance of early intervention to prevent infections from becoming serious.
Living with recurring kidney stones can affect your long-term health. Beyond the physical symptoms, the condition can lead to anxiety, stress, and reduced quality of life. Pain episodes may disrupt daily activities, affect work productivity, and limit social interactions.
Additionally, repeated treatments for kidney stones, such as surgeries or medical interventions, can take a toll on your overall well-being.
Furthermore, recurrent stones may point to an underlying metabolic disorder, such as hypercalciuria (excess calcium in the urine), which could require ongoing management. Monitoring and addressing these underlying conditions are crucial for preventing future stones and maintaining long-term kidney health.
Preventing kidney stones involves making lifestyle changes and managing underlying health conditions. Staying hydrated is one of the most important steps you can take, as it helps dilute substances in the urine that lead to stone formation. Additionally, a balanced diet that limits salt, animal protein, and foods high in oxalates (such as spinach and nuts) can reduce your risk of developing stones.
At UMC Victoria Hospital, we offer advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options for managing kidney stones.
These include minimally invasive procedures like extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) and laser surgery to break up stones, as well as surgical interventions when necessary. Our team of specialists works closely with patients to create individualized care plans focused on both treatment and prevention.
Kidney stones can significantly impact your health, from causing severe pain to damaging kidney function and increasing the risk of infections. By understanding the symptoms and seeking timely treatment at UMC Victoria Hospital, you can protect your kidney health and improve your overall quality of life. If you experience any signs of kidney stones, don't hesitate to contact us for expert care and support.
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