About Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are solid objects which form inside your kidneys. Kidney stones are generally made from calcium, oxalate, and other substances found in urine. These stones are small and look like a grain or as big as a ball. It can create painful conditions in the human body, especially when passing through the urinary tract.
Kidney Stone Causes
The causes of kidney stones can vary, but the most common reasons include:
- Dehydration: Especially common in Ahmedabad’s hot climate, not drinking enough water leads to concentrated urine, increasing the risk of stone formation.
- Diet: Diets high in protein, salt, or sugar can raise the risk of certain types of stones.
- Medical conditions: Such as hyperparathyroidism, urinary tract infections, and digestive diseases.
- Family history: A family history of kidney stones increases your risk.
Understanding what’s behind your kidney stones can help you and your doctor choose the best course of treatment.
When to See a Doctor
You might not notice a kidney stone until it starts to move within your kidney or passes into your ureter-the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder. Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain: Sharp, cramping pain in the back and side, often moving to the lower abdomen or groin.
- Blood in urine: Pink, red, or brown urine may be a sign.
- Frequent urination: Or a persistent urge to urinate.
- Painful urination
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills: If there’s an infection.
These symptoms can come on suddenly and escalate quickly. If you experience severe or worsening symptoms, it’s time to seek medical attention.
Kidney Stone Treatment Options in Ahmedabad
Treatment depends on the size, type, and location of the stone, as well as your overall health. Here are the most common kidney stone treatment methods:
- Hydration and Pain Management: For small stones (less than 5 mm), your doctor may recommend drinking plenty of fluids and taking pain relievers to help pass the stone naturally.
- Medications: Certain medications can help relax the muscles in your ureter, making it easier to pass the stone.
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This non-invasive treatment uses shock waves to break stones into smaller pieces that can be passed through the urine.
- Ureteroscopy: A thin scope is inserted through the urethra and bladder to remove or break up the stone using laser energy.
- Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: For larger stones, a small incision is made in the back to remove the stone directly from the kidney.
- Kidney Stone Surgery: In rare cases, traditional surgery may be needed if other methods are ineffective or complications arise. Modern kidney stone surgery techniques used in Ahmedabad’s hospitals are minimally invasive and highly effective.
Choosing the Right Doctor in Ahmedabad
For expert kidney stone and circumcision treatment, Dr. Alpesh Patel at Tirtham Surgical Hospital, Ahmedabad, is a trusted choice. With years of experience and advanced surgical techniques, Dr. Patel ensures safe, effective care. Tirtham Surgical Hospital offers modern facilities, personalized treatment, and quick recovery, making it a top destination for surgical care in Ahmedabad.
Look for:
- Board-certified urologists
- Facilities with advanced imaging and surgical tools
- Positive patient reviews and ratings
Hospitals that offer 24/7 emergency care, especially for painful kidney stone episodes
Prevention Tips for Kidney Stones
Preventing future stones is just as important as treating current ones. Here are some tips:
- Stay hydrated: Aim for 2-3 liters of water daily, especially during hot Ahmedabad summers.
- Limit salt and animal protein intake
- Eat calcium-rich foods: But avoid calcium supplements unless prescribed.
- Avoid oxalate-rich foods: Like spinach, nuts, and chocolate if you’re prone to calcium oxalate stones.
Your doctor may also recommend dietary changes or medications based on the type of stone you had.
Conclusion
Kidney stones are painful but if we get proper guidance and medical treatment on time, we will get free from it. If you suffer from kidney stone pain, don’t wait to get expert advice on it. Whether it’s understanding kidney stone causes, managing kidney stone symptoms, or choosing the best kidney stone treatment or kidney stone surgery, a qualified doctor can help guide you every step of the way.
