Kidney stones (also known as renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, or urolithiasis) are mineral and salt deposits that form within the kidneys. Kidney stones can be caused by a number of causes, including nutrition, obesity, certain medical conditions, and certain supplements and medicines. Kidney stones can cause problems in any part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys and bladder. Stones frequently develop when urine gets concentrated, allowing minerals to solidify and adhere together.

A kidney stone normally does not produce symptoms until it travels about within your kidney or enters your ureters, the tubes that link your kidneys and bladder. If it becomes caught in the ureters, it can obstruct the flow of urine, causing the kidney to enlarge and the ureter to spasm, both of which can be excruciatingly painful.

Types of kidney stones include:

Calcium Stones: The majority of kidney stones are calcium stones, most of which are calcium oxalate. Oxalate is a chemical that your liver produces on a regular basis or that you absorb from your food. Certain fruits and vegetables, as well as nuts and chocolate, contain a lot of oxalate. Calcium phosphate stone is another type of calcium stone that arises more commonly in metabolic conditions such as renal tubular acidosis.

Struvite Stones: As a result of a urinary tract infection. These stones can develop fast and become quite huge, with minimal signs or warnings.

Uric Acid Stones: People who lose too much fluid due to chronic diarrhea or malabsorption, those who eat a high-protein diet, and those with diabetes or metabolic syndrome are at risk of developing uric acid stones.

Cystine Stones: These stones arise in persons who have cystinuria, a genetic condition in which the kidneys discharge an excessive amount of a certain amino acid.

There is no one definite approach to avoid kidney stones, especially if the problem runs in your family. A combination of dietary and lifestyle modifications, as well as some medicines, may help lower your risk. However, it is best to talk with a doctor or other healthcare expert about which treatment options, including over-the-counter medicines and home remedies, are best for you. Depending on the stage of kidney illness and other circumstances, people with renal disease may need to limit their salt, potassium, or other mineral consumption.

PNFP Jezer Z. Calingacion, RND

References:

https://www.jpeeiclinic.com/2021/05/kidney-stones.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-stones/symptoms-causes/syc-20355755
https://glamyohealth.in/health/kidney-stone
https://ganephrology.com/services/kidney-stones/
https://kidneystoneremovals.com/calcium-oxalate-kidney-stones/what-causes-kidney-stones-made-of-calcium-oxalate/
https://www.healthline.com/health/kidney-health/how-to-prevent-kidney-stones/