Kidney Stones: Types, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention – By Dr. Faisal Manzoor
Source : Dr. Faisal Manzoor linkedin
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form in the kidneys due to concentrated urine. They vary in size and can cause significant pain if they obstruct urine flow.
Types of Kidney Stones
1. Calcium Stones (Most Common, 70-80%)
Made of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate.
Caused by high oxalate intake (spinach, nuts, chocolate) and low water intake.
2. Uric Acid Stones (5-10%)
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Formed due to high purine intake (red meat, seafood) and acidic urine.
Common in gout, diabetes, or dehydration.
3. Struvite Stones (10-15%)
Composed of magnesium, ammonium, and phosphate.
Linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs) with urease-producing bacteria.
Grow rapidly and can become staghorn stones (occupying the kidney).
4. Cystine Stones (1-2%)
Caused by cystinuria, a rare genetic disorder leading to excess cystine in urine.
Often recurrent and difficult to treat.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Dehydration (low urine output).
- High salt, protein, or oxalate intake.
- Low citrate levels (prevents stone formation).
- Obesity and metabolic conditions.
- Genetic factors (family history).
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
- Severe flank pain (radiating to the lower abdomen or groin).
- Blood in urine (hematuria) – pink, red, or brown urine.
- Frequent, painful urination.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Fever and chills (if infection is present)
Diagnosis
1. Urinalysis – detects blood, crystals, infection.
2. Blood Tests – checks kidney function and mineral levels.
3. Imaging Tests:
- CT Scan (Gold Standard) – detects even tiny stones.
- Ultrasound – preferred in pregnancy and children.
- X-ray (KUB) – may detect large stones.
Treatment Options
1. Conservative Treatment (Small Stones <5 mm)
- Increase Water Intake (2.5-3 liters/day).
- Pain Management – NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac).
- Alpha-blockers (Tamsulosin) – relax ureters for easier passage.
2. Medical Expulsion Therapy (5-10 mm Stones)
- Tamsulosin + hydration to help stone pass naturally.
- Potassium citrate to dissolve uric acid stones.
3. Surgical Treatment (Large or Obstructive Stones)
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) – breaks stones using sound waves.
- Ureteroscopy (URS) – a laser breaks stones in the ureter.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) – for large (>20 mm) or staghorn stones.
- Open Surgery (Rarely Used) – for extreme cases.
Prevention of Kidney Stones
- Drink 2.5-3 liters of water daily.
- Reduce salt, oxalate, and animal protein intake.
- Increase citrate-rich foods (lemons, oranges).
- Limit sugary and carbonated drinks.
- Regular exercise and weight management.
