Kidney stones are a buildup of excess minerals in your kidney that clump together. Depending on their size, these stones may be inconsequential or they may be large enough to cause lower back pain in some people. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consult with a urologist.
But, more specifically, how are urologists equipped to assist you in the treatment and management of kidney stones?
Kidney Stones Causes, Symptoms, and Types
Mineral deposits in your kidney are caused by a variety of factors, including diet and medical conditions. The presence of hereditary traits, body mass index, medications and supplements, bowel conditions, and urine volume are all important factors.
Calcium buildup in the kidneys, specifically calcium oxalates and calcium phosphates, is responsible for approximately 80% of kidney stone formation. These stones are formed as a result of consuming too much calcium or oxalate in your diet. Uric acid stones, which are caused by diabetes, gout, and obesity, are the second most common type of deposit.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and excessive amino acids are the primary causes of less common stones such as struvite stones and cystine stones. Cystine stones are hereditary in nature and can manifest themselves as early as childhood.
Some kidney stones may be so small that you will not be able to detect them unless you have a CT scan or an ultrasound performed. In some cases, small deposits may be able to pass through your urinary tract and be excreted successfully with minimal discomfort.
Some kidney stones, on the other hand, can cause excruciating pain, particularly in the back and groin areas. Aside from reddish or foul-smelling urine, other symptoms of kidney stones include pain when urinating, nausea, and fever.
How Can Urologists Help You?
Urologists are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary system. They are also known as urinary system specialists. Urologists are also knowledgeable about the reproductive health of men. Urologists can also specialize in female urology and urologic oncology in addition to the above-mentioned specializations.
Their practice includes the treatment of diseases such as kidney stones, urinary tract cancers, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). When you have kidney stones, you should see a urologist right away.
Prevention and Treatment
Your urologist will recommend preventive measures to help you avoid the formation of kidney stones on a recurrent basis. Preventive measures are essential because studies have shown that nearly half of patients with kidney stones relapse after seven years, indicating that prevention is essential. As long as your stones are small enough, you will be able to treat them without having to resort to surgery.
The intake of oxalate-rich foods such as nuts, chocolate, and soy products may be restricted if you are suffering from calcium stones, according to your urologist. Cystine stones are a type of kidney stone, and your doctor may recommend that you drink more water to dilute your urine.
Medications may also be prescribed by your urologist in addition to dietary modifications. These medications are used not only to relieve pain but also to prevent infection and the formation of kidney stones in some cases. Having struvite stones may necessitate your doctor prescribing antibiotics to keep bacteria from growing in your urine.
If you have cystine stones, you may benefit from taking medications that increase salt solubility in urine. If you have calcium or uric acid stones, your doctor may prescribe you medication to help keep your calcium and acid levels under control while you are healing.
If you are currently taking any supplements or medications, you should discuss them with your urologist.
Surgery and Other Treatments
If your kidney stones become too large to pass through your ureter, you may need more advanced treatment methods. Your urologist will be the one to recommend the best treatment option for you.
There are many causes and types of kidney stones, so there are also many ways to control them. Your urologist is an expert in diagnosing and treating conditions concerning the urinary system. With their expertise, they will help you treat symptoms and prevent the further formation of kidney stones.
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