It’s likely that kidney stones are more prevalent than you think, and if they are not caught in time, may result in extreme discomfort. During the early stages, many people seem to face acute pain, but there are many ways to check for the warning symptoms that don’t go to that level.
If you have been feeling some discomfort in your lower back, pain in urination, or change of color in urine, you may ask yourself these questions. Do I have kidney stones? Is it possible to check them at home? In this blog we will discuss everything about kidney stones, who is at risk, and how you can detect them, so keep reading.
What Are Kidney Stones?
There is no way to look for home checks and tools without knowing what kidney stones are first.
Kidney stones are accumulated deposits of salt and minerals in the body that form inside your kidneys. They can appear as small as grains of sand or even larger and protrude up to the size of a pea. In general, they consist of calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and cystine.
These stones can:
– Remain within your kidneys
– Pass to your ureter (a tube connecting the kidney to the bladder)
– Or eventually be excreted as urine (albeit quite painfully)
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop kidney stones, but some people are more at risk than others. Additionally, they are more frequently observed in individuals who:
– Do not stay hydration
– Consume high-protein, sodium, or sugar diets
– Are overweight or obese
– Have family history of kidney stones
– Suffers from diseases like gout, hyperparathyroidism, or chronic UTIs
– Utilize certain medications that alter levels of calcium or uric acid
Let’s move on to what you are truly after.
How can you perform a kidney stone self-test at home?
Though 100% self-diagnosing isn’t feasible, there are certain signs and symptoms that one should be on the lookout for under the suspicion of having kidney stones.
1. Lower Back or Flank Pain
This is the classic symptom.
Pain can:
- suddenly begin
- present itself as sharp or crampy
- recur
- radiate to parts like the groin or lower abdomen
Tip: People who have pain on one side, along with sudden worsening of pain with movement, should get checked.
2. Pain or Burning While Urinating
This symptom is commonly associated with UTI; however, in the absence of infections, pain can indicate a small stone moving within the urinary tract system.
Tip: Observe your urinary habits. Burning, stinging, or the feeling of needing to go a lot but not producing any urine should be noted.
3. Blood in Your Urine
Your urine may appear:
- Pink
- Red
- Brown
- Or just unusually dark
Even the slightest hint of blood could suggest that a stone has begun to irritate the urinary tract which is highly capable of blood leakage.
Tip: Don’t panic if you see blood—but don’t ignore it either. Regardless the amount of blood noticed, it still remains potentially one of the most common symptoms associated with kidney stones.
4. Changes In Urine Appearences (Cloudy, Smelly Or Less Volume)
Increased risk of infection and blockage within circulation kidney stones can cause yield of urine might decrease and possess:
- Foul Smell
- Cloudy Appearance
Tip: Some of these indicators might seem shallow, however when paired with pain or discomfort, they become significant.
5. the Likelihood of Urge to Urinate Becomes Consistent
If the stone is positioned close to the bladder, the need to urinate increases drastically, but the amount of urine produced becomes very small.
Tip: Monitor how often you’re using the bathroom. If you’re going more often, especially at night, pay attention to that.
6. Nausea or Vomiting
The kidneys and the digestive system have overlapping nerve innervations. If the kidneys are irritated, they may elicit the stomach’s response too.
Tip: If you feel nauseous without a clear reason along with some the other symptoms mentioned above, it may be linked with kidney issues.
Is There a Method of Detecting Kidney Stones at Home?
To be frank, it is not possible to feel a kidney stone in your body by touch. There is no bulge or protrusion to identify.
But you can do this:
– Use a urine strainer: If you suspect a stone is passing, urinate through a strainer or fine cloth. If you do catch a small stone, make sure to keep it and take it to your doctor.
– Stay hydrated: Increasing water intake may assist in the natural expulsion of smaller stones.
– Note the symptoms: Make a record of the frequency of urination, any associated pain, changes in urine color or odor, as well as the presence of fever.
When to See a Doctor?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned below, make an appointment with a specialist:-
– Continuous severe pain
– Presence of blood in urine
– Chills or high fever (possible infection)
– Nausea or vomiting associated with pain
– Difficulty urinating
How Does a Urologist Diagnose Kidney Stones?
Doctors confirm their diagnosis by using imaging and tests, they do not make guesses.
Hew holistic therapies cured kidney stones? – An ultrasound or CT scan can provide clarity on the stone’s exact size and location for easier diagnosis.
- Blood tests: Check for infection or blood in the urine.
- X-ray: Sometimes used to look for the presence of calcium stones.
Diagnosing issues with your kidneys? And if it happens to be kidney stones?
What exactly should be done depends on the size, location, and type of stone you have. Your may require for relief:
For small stones, you may be offered liquid and painkillers to ease discomfort
Medications designed to aid movement of the stone or surgery, such as:
- RIRS
- Ureteroscopy
- Laser therapy (ESWL)
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) if the stones are large or complex
Important Reminder:
- Always pay attention to your body and its signals.
- Do not overly depend on pain killers.
- Never ignore blood or fever.
Finally, do not consume unvalidated home remedies, like apple cider vinegar, in hope of results.
Don’t Ignore Symptoms Until It’s Too Late
Performing a home check on your body for symptoms related to kidney stones isn’t a matter of checking a box marked yes or no. It involves paying attention to your body’s early warning signals and taking your symptoms seriously by consulting a specialist.
The good news? If your condition is not too serious you do not have to exacerbate your pain and discomfort.
Dr. Deepanshu Gupta – A Urologist You Can Trust
For patients suffering with possible kidney stones and urinary disorders, some of the most reliable experts in kidney stone removal is Dr. Deepanshu Gupta. He has been recognized for his.
Dr. Gupta has treated numerous people who wish to get rid of kidney stones through non-invasive surgery. His approach is holistic and customized to every patient—be it first-timers or chronic stone formers with years of experience.
Schedule a consultation today and eliminate the discomfort of kidney stones without enduring.