Kidney Stones: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Kidney Stone Symptoms
Kidney stones can cause a range of symptoms that vary depending on their size and location. Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain, often described as sharp or cramping, which typically occurs in the lower back, side, or abdomen and may radiate to the groin area.
- Blood in the urine, which can appear pink, red, or brown, is another common sign due to irritation of the urinary tract.
- Patients may experience frequent urination, an urgent need to urinate, and discomfort or a burning sensation during urination. Additionally, urine may appear cloudy or have a foul odor.
- In some cases, severe pain and discomfort can lead to nausea and vomiting. If a kidney stone causes an infection, symptoms may also include fever and chills.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones form when substances in urine become highly concentrated and crystallize. Key causes include:
- Dehydration, high intake of sodium, calcium, oxalate, or protein, and genetic factors.
- Medical conditions like hyperparathyroidism and obesity can also increase risk.
- Certain medications, urinary tract infections, and prolonged immobility can contribute to stone formation.
Addressing these factors through hydration, dietary changes, and medical management can help prevent kidney stones.
About Our Kidney Stone Treatment Services
At Triangle Lithotripsy Corporation, we offer advanced, non-invasive kidney stone treatment. Our mobility allows us to bring lithotripsy services directly to communities, partnering with local urologists and hospitals to provide accessible care. We are committed to delivering exceptional care and making advanced kidney stone treatment convenient and accessible for all. Ask your doctor about lithotripsy today!
Urology vs. Nephrology
Urology and nephrology are two medical specialties that focus on the urinary system, but they have distinct areas of expertise.
Urology is a surgical specialty that deals with the urinary tract, including kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Urologists address structural and functional issues, such as kidney stones, bladder infections and urinary incontinence.
Nephrology is a non-surgical specialty that focuses on kidney function and related diseases. Instead of surgery, nephrologists manage kidney-related issues through medication and dialysis.
Although there is some overlap—for instance, both might treat kidney stones or kidney failure—their approaches are different. Urologists might remove a kidney stone with lithotripsy, while nephrologists work to prevent them with medical management.
Kidney Stone Specialist in the Triangle Region
Seek medical treatment for kidney stones if you experience severe or worsening pain in the back, side, or abdomen, painful urination, blood in the urine, frequent urination with pain, persistent nausea or vomiting, fever and chills, or difficulty urinating. These symptoms may indicate a need for medical evaluation and treatment to prevent complications.