Signs of Kidney Stones – Causes, Prevention and Treatments

Kidney stone, also known as renal stone, is a common cause of abdominal pain requiring hospital visit or admission in Nigeria. It is more common in men compared to women. It is also a very common cause of emergency presentation in the emergency department.
Kidney stone is the presence of a stone, medically called precipitated solutes within the kidney(s). Imagine when you add salt/sugar (solute) to a cup of water (solvent). The more you add the solute to the solvent; it will reach the saturation point when it crystallizes out. However when more solvent is added, the solute will dissolve. This is the same principle that works in the human body. The kidney does that admirable function of removing waste materials from the body. This it does by carrying them in a liquid conduit. The stone could be caused by various salts, the most common being calcium containing salts.
The presence of the symptoms discussed earlier should prompt immediate review by a Medical Doctor. This is not the time for self-medication. It is also necessary to seek help on time to prevent complications from kidney stone occurring or complications from other diseases that may present like that of kidney stones.
The presence of kidney stones could predispose to infection which may be restricted to the urinary tract and in severe cases could progress to sepsis. In individuals with bilateral kidney stones or affectation of the single functioning kidney it may result in the development of kidney failure which if not addressed immediately would result in need for dialysis or kidney transplant in future. These complications in severe cases could also result in death of the individual if not treated on time.
Adequate hydration is advised. In regions with a tropical climate like Nigeria, it is usually advised to take more than three litres (3 ltr) of fluid a day. However this may be inadequate when the weather is hot and humid and perspiration is high. The colour of the urine passed is a very good marker to know if you have taken adequate amounts of water. It should be colourless (just like water).
Kidney stone is one disease that can be overcome when the right thing is done and on time. Are you having symptoms suggestive of kidney stone or suffering from kidney stone? Speak to doctor today.
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Dr. Egbulem Orusaemeka Kelechi is a University of Jos trained medical doctor with 14 years of clinical practice experience. Dr Kay loves to write and educate poeple about health and health related matters.
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