From the medical definition of nephrolithiasis, kidney stones are among the top health concerns for millions of people including many in Gurgaon. With the increase of technology, the treatment offered for kidney stones is becoming less invasive which allows for faster recovery and reduced pain to the patients.
Gaining Insight Into Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard crystallized aggregations of salts and minerals that may form in the kidneys. The stones can be cystine, calcified oxite, urate stones or strurvite stones and their size can vary which in turn may cause pain. Some of the reasons that contribute towards kidney stones include high intake of other substances like water, being over weight and family history.
Kidney stones occur as solid technological deposits of salts and minerals in the kidneys which can be caused due to dehydration. The stones range in size, some being as small as sand grains while other being several centimeters wide, resulting in extreme pain. Renal colic is the common term to describe this condition.
Kidney Stones Types
Below are the given kidney stone types to look for:-
1. Calcium Oxalate stones :
Causing severe pain and blockage of the urine canal, the most common kidney stones that are formed are calcified oxite stones which makes up nearly 80% of the stones.
These stones are formed when calcium oxide combines with calcium found in food like spinach, beets, and even chocolate. The body can lead to stone formation rout in the calcium and oxalate becomes overly abundant.
2. Uric Acid Stones:
Uric acid stones form due to low pH urine or acidic urine. These are commonplace in high-protein diets, particularly those abundant in meat, shellfish, and organ meats. Gout and other metabolic syndromes can increase the likelihood of uric acid stones.
3. Struvite Stones:
These stones portend the infection of the urinary system. Struvite stones can become enormous at an alarming rate. They are predominantly discovered among females who are already suffering from UTIs caused by certain bacteria that tend to produce ammonia.
4. Cystine Stones:
Cystine stones are hard to find but are caused ny high levels of cystine found in urine. These stones can be terribly hard to remove, but could become easy if the cystinuria is managed properly.
Underlying Causes and Risks
There are several factors that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones:
- Dehydration:
Inadequate intake of fluids can result in more concentrated urine which is a significant factor in kidney stone formation. With increased concentration of urine, the chance of minerals crystallizing to form stones increases. One of best preventive measures is proper hydration.
- Dietary Factors:
The risk of developing kidney stones can be increased with a diet that contains high sodium, protein, and oxalate. High animal protein diets can contribute to raised levels of uric acid and foods high in oxalate can contribute to calcium oxalate stone formation. Reducing salt and animal protein along with consuming a balance diet and adequate fluids can reduce the risk.
- Obesity:
Higher levels of urinary calcium, oxalate, and uric acid associated with weight gain are major contributors to stone formation. Furthermore, obesity can lead to the development of metabolic syndrome and diabetes which can heighten the chances of kidney stones.
- Genetic Factors:
Having a family history of kidney stones increases the chances of an individual developing stones, considering that the stones tend to run in families. During an individual’s evaluation, if a part of the family has had a stone, that person will most likely need religious follow-ups later on as their chances of developing it increase.
- Risk Factors:
Other medical risks include having a prior history of kidney stones, inflammatory bowel disease, hyperparathyroidism, chronic UTIs, or gout. More likely than not, individuals with these conditions will develop stones at a much faster pace than those without underlying medical conditions.
- Medications:
Other forms of medication such as diuretics, calcium, certain IV chemotherapy agents, and oxalate infusions may increase chances of ambient stones developing in a kidney. The said medications alter the rate of calcium, oxalate, and a few other substances in the urine, which leads to stone formation.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
The location and size of a person’s kidney stones will determine the symptoms for them, however the common ones include:
- Severe Pain:
Most pains can be traced to the lower abdominal area, the back, or sides. In particular, the pain is localized to the sharp stone movements adjacent to the urinary tract, the pain experienced can be described as extreme for better context.
- Hematuria (Blood in Urine):
In addition to extreme pain, blood is sometimes present in the urine. The urine may also change and appear brownish, reddish, or even pinkish. Stones may inflame the urinary bi-tracks and as a result of that tears may happen that may lead to the blood being present.
- Frequent Urination and Urgency:
An individual suffering from kidney stones might notice they need to relieve themselves more often. Equally, they may have a strong and sudden desire to urinate.
- Nausea and Vomiting:
Kidney stones are known to inflict extreme pain, especially at the moment when the stone is passing through the urinary tract. This sharp pain can lead to feelings of nausea along with vomiting.
- Cloudy or Foul Smelling Urine:
If an infection exists and is associated with the stone, the urine may look tainted or possess a distinct and foul smell.
- Fever and Chills:
Furthermore, if an infection exists, fever and chills might accompany the other symptoms. This combination of symptoms is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
Diagnosis and Treatment
In most cases, the diagnosis begins with imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds, which are used to determine the existence of the stones, their size, and location. To determine causes like high calcium levels or infections, blood and urine tests may also be performed.
Eligibility For Kidney Stone Treatment
Few cases of kidney stones require surgery. Adverse treatment options depend on the following considerations:-
Size And Location: Generally, stones located at the kidney’s mouth, also known as the renal pelvis, which measure more than 5mm, and cases where the stones are deemed to be obstructive, must be treated.
Symptoms: Severe pain accompanied with Hematuria (medical term used to describe blood according to urine) along with infection of the urinary tract will warrant attention.
Stone Composition: Some stones, Cystine stones, are distinct in nature and therefore need specific other treatment plans.
The Best Kidney Stone Removal Methods
The following methods can be employed for the removal of stones from kidneys:
1. Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS)
With this method, a flexible scope is put inside the urinary tract of the patient. Stones can be either gotten rid of or broken into bits and pieces which is then excreted by the body. It is most effective with patients who have stones in places that are hard to access. This method has lesser recovery time in comparison to traditional ways and is favorable for most patients.
2. Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy (URSL)
This entails the working of a thin tube through a urethra and bladder with the aim of getting a stone. A laser is then used to break the stone fully into pieces. It is done on patients who have stones lower down the urinary tract. Unlike other methods, this one does not require a patient to rest for a very long time. Most patients will go back to normal activities not later than a week.
3. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
This one involves the breaking of the stone during the procedure without any incision being made. Shock waves are aimed at the stone and turned into smaller fragments which can be expelled through urine. It is done on patients who have stones in the kidneys or upper parts of the urinary tract. The procedure itself does not give much pain to the patient on the third day after the spendable days, they can go back to doing normal routines like work.
4. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
This is done for exceptionally large stones or in cases where other techniques are unhelpful.
To get to the kidney, a small incision is made at the back and the stone is either removed or broken into smaller units. The average hospital stay is 1-2 days and full recovery takes 2-4 weeks.
As with any operation, instructions from the urologist should be strictly adhered to, along with dietary changes and other medications to reduce chances of reoccurrence.
Finding a Clinic in Gurgaon
CureStone’s Dr. Deepanshu Gupta is recognized as one of the best urologists in Gurgaon due to his kind-hearted nature towards patients. Dr. Gupta has deep knowledge of medicine, and is motivated to refine methods of treatment to improve patient care. This allows Dr. Gupta to provide each of his patients with the necessary attention they deserve.
Dr. Gupta employs advanced techniques along with individualized treatment plans in order to communicate strongly with his patients and improve their overall quality of life. Selecting Dr. Gupta means choosing a qualified professional who puts your health and every aspect of your well-being at the top of his priority list. Because of his specialty, consultations are much more precise and tailored to the specific treatment needed by the patient.
Conclusion
Kidney stone treatment in Gurgaon has become more effective, giving patients access to advanced medical technology through innovative, less invasive techniques. Understanding the offered procedures and setting realistic recuperation expectations allows better choice making regarding an individual’s health.
An experienced urologist is the cornerstone of effective treatment and enhanced well-being. Dr. Gupta’s gentle and caring approach enables a safe space while maintaining the utmost dignity for the patients being treated. Moreover, Dr. Gupta blends holistic approaches and passion for his field to create a synergy designed to maximize life.
Book an appointment today to boost your health and claim your life back!