Kidney Stones

Overview

Kidney stones, or renal calculi, are small, hard mineral deposits that form inside your kidneys when certain substances in the urine become highly concentrated. These stones vary in size from a tiny grain of sand to a large golf ball, causing significant discomfort as they travel through the urinary tract. In India, especially in warmer regions like Telangana, kidney stones are very common due to high temperatures leading to dehydration and specific dietary habits like high salt intake and low water consumption. If left untreated, these stones can cause severe pain, block the flow of urine, and potentially lead to kidney infections or long-term organ damage. At Sanjeevi Hospital, Sangareddy, we understand how a sudden attack of renal colic can disrupt your life. Modern urology offers numerous ways to manage this condition effectively, ranging from simple medical management to advanced, minimally invasive laser procedures that ensure a quick return to your daily routine without the need for traditional open surgery.

Symptoms to watch for

• Severe, sharp pain in the side and back, often radiating to the lower abdomen and groin.
• Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity, known as renal colic.
• Burning sensation or sharp pain while urinating.
• Pink, red, or brown coloured urine, indicating the presence of blood.
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine which may suggest an underlying infection.
• A persistent need to urinate more frequently than usual.
• Urinating in small amounts or a weak urine stream.
• Nausea and vomiting caused by the intense nature of the pain.
• Fever and chills if an infection has developed alongside the stone.

Causes & risk factors

• Dehydration or not drinking enough water is the leading cause in the Indian climate.
• Dietary habits high in salt (sodium), sugar, and animal proteins increase mineral buildup.
• Family history or personal history of having previous kidney stones.
• Obesity and high Body Mass Index (BMI) are linked to increased stone risk.
• Certain digestive diseases and previous gastric surgeries that affect calcium absorption.
• Medical conditions such as Hyperparathyroidism or frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• High intake of oxalate-rich foods like spinach, nuts, and certain types of tea.
• Prolonged use of certain medications or supplements without medical supervision.

Diagnosis

• A detailed physical examination and review of your medical and family history.
• Blood tests to check levels of calcium, uric acid, and kidney function parameters.
• Urinalysis to look for signs of infection, blood, or stone-forming crystals in the urine.
• Ultrasound (KUB) which is a safe, radiation-free way to visualize stones in the kidneys or bladder.
• Non-contrast CT Scan, the gold standard for accurately determining stone size and location.
• X-ray of the Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) to monitor stone movement or growth.
• Stone analysis, where passed stones are tested in a lab to determine their chemical composition.

Treatment options

Prevention & self-care

• Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 2.5 to 3 litres of water daily to keep urine diluted.
• Reduce your daily salt intake by avoiding papads, pickles, and processed snacks common in Indian diets.
• Eat a balanced amount of calcium-rich foods like milk and curd, as dietary calcium helps prevent stones.
• Limit foods high in oxalates, such as spinach, beetroot, chocolates, and nuts, if you are prone to stones.
• Incorporate citrus fruits like lemons and oranges into your diet to increase citrate levels in your urine.
• Limit the intake of animal proteins like red meat and eggs, which can increase uric acid levels.
• Maintain a healthy body weight through regular physical activity and a balanced diet.
• Avoid self-medicating with high doses of Vitamin C or calcium supplements without a doctor's advice.