Raleigh Kidney Specialist

Symptoms, Causes & Treatment of Kidney Stones

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.

We Partner with Urologists to Treat Kidney Stones

At Triangle Lithotripsy Corporation, we offer advanced, non-invasive kidney stone treatment. Our mobility allows us to bring lithotripsy services directly to communities in Raleigh and surrounding areas, 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.

FAQs About Kidney Specialists in Raleigh, NC

 

A kidney specialist, called a nephrologist, diagnoses and treats conditions affecting kidney function, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), electrolyte imbalances, kidney-related high blood pressure, glomerular diseases, and kidney failure. They also help evaluate recurrent kidney stones and underlying metabolic causes, manage dialysis care, and coordinate long-term treatment with primary care physicians and other specialists.

You may be referred to a kidney specialist if you have persistently abnormal kidney function on lab work (such as elevated creatinine or a low eGFR), protein in your urine, certain types of blood in your urine, difficult-to-control high blood pressure, recurrent kidney stones, or a family history of kidney disease. Early evaluation and treatment may help slow the progression of kidney disease.

A nephrologist specializes in the medical diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases and disorders affecting kidney function, while a urologist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the urinary tract and male reproductive system, including many conditions that require surgery. Patients typically see a nephrologist for kidney disease and a urologist for issues such as kidney stones, urinary obstruction, urinary tract cancers, or surgical treatment.

Whether you need a referral depends on your insurance plan. Many HMO plans require a referral from your primary care physician, while PPO plans often allow you to schedule directly. It’s best to confirm with your provider’s office and insurer before booking.