Ask anyone who has ever passed a kidney stone if they would like to do it again. Chances are, your answer will be an immediate “no!”
It can be one of the most painful things, maybe next to childbirth, we can endure. They will tell you to run to a urologist if you have certain symptoms, and they will tell you once you have a kidney stone, you are likely to have more. Then they will explain the importance of and when to see a urologist for kidney stone treatment.
What Exactly IS A Kidney Stone?
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and acid salts. They form if your urine is concentrated causing them to stick together. You usually don’t have any symptoms while they remain in the kidneys, but you will when the stone(s) pass into the ureter which is the tube connecting the kidneys with the bladder.
Why Kidney Stones Form
There are several risk factors which lead to kidney stone development.
They include the following:
- Dehydration
- Obesity or a high BMI body mass index are associated with kidney stones
- A diet high in protein, sodium, and sugar with sodium being the main culprit
- IBS or other digestive diseases
- Family or personal history of kidney stones
- If you have had gastric bypass surgery, it can increase the amount of stone forming substances in your urine.
Changing your diet, being sure to stay hydrated, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help to prevent the formation of kidney stones.
When To See A Urologist For Kidney Stones
There are some glaring signs that you might be passing a kidney stone. The main one is pain, which is sometimes excruciating pain.
Some more of the early signs are sharp pain in your back and side below your ribs. The pain can move into your lower abdomen, accompanied by pain while urinating. In addition, look for cloudy, red or brown foul smelling urine, and pain or burning when you urinate.
If you begin to have nausea and vomiting, you should definitely see Dr. Ori Hampel. Fever and chills indicate you may have an infection.
Immediately contact Dr. Hample if you have blood in your urine, difficulty passing urine, and/or severe pain so that you can’t get into a comfortable position.
At the first sign of symptoms begin to drink water to help flush out the stone until you can get an appointment with your urologist.
If you suspect you’re dealing with a kidney stone or are experiencing any of the symptoms described, don’t delay. Early evaluation and treatment can make all the difference, not only in managing your current pain but in preventing future stones. Call (713) 477-8600 schedule a consultation with Dr. Ori Hampel today to take the first step toward lasting relief and better urologic health. Your kidneys will thank you.