Kidneys are the bean shaped organs located near the lower
back on both sides of the spine. Their main function is to filter your blood
from any toxins and harmful substances. Any toxins filtered are sent to the
urine to be excreted from the body through urination.
What are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are created when there
is not enough liquid in the urine to dilute waste chemicals and solid forms
of compound in the urine. These waste become concentrated and solid forms stick
together to form a stone. These stones are made of calcium, phosphorus, uric
acid, cystine, and other chemicals. Kidney stones vary in shape and size, and
can be smooth or jagged. Stone sizes may range from the size of a sand particle
to a golf ball.
Kidney stones are one of the most
common disorders of the urinary tract and anyone can get it. Certain foods may
promote stone formation. Although it is more likely to be found in overweight
and obese people, there are many ways to prevent stones from appearing.
Causes
There is no definite, single
cause, but many factors can increase your risk for kidney stones. Knowing the
type of kidney stone may help determine the cause and give insight on how to
reduce your risk or getting more.
Symptoms
Usually, there are no symptoms of
a kidney stone until it moves and blocks the flow of urine.
The most common symptom of kidney stones is
sharp pains in the lower back and side area. The pain occurs when a small stone
is stuck in one of the ureters on its way to the bladder. The pain caused by a
kidney stone may shift locations or in intensity as the stone moves through
your urinary tract.
Other symptoms include:
· Pain that spread to the lower abdomen & groin
· Pain that fluctuates in intensity
· Pain when urinating.
· Nausea with pain
· Pink, red or brown urine
· Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
· Urinating more than usual
· Fever & chills is there if an infection present
· Pain that spread to the lower abdomen & groin
· Pain that fluctuates in intensity
· Pain when urinating.
· Nausea with pain
· Pink, red or brown urine
· Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
· Urinating more than usual
· Fever & chills is there if an infection present
It is important to notify your
doctor immediately if these symptoms pertain to you.
Because the stone or stones may
block the ureter and blocks the kidney, it is vital to seek treatment. An
abscess can easily form in the kidney if left untreated. This can lead to
infection in the blood stream, which can ultimately lead to death. In some
cases, kidney stones that go untreated can lead to kidney damage, and serious
complications.
Sources:
Kidney Stones. (2012, August 12). Retrieved September 20, 2014, from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/kidneystones/ur079104.pdf
Kidney stones. (2012, May 17). Retrieved September 21, 2014, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-stones/basics/causes/con-20024829
Visual Health Solutions. Retrieved Septermber 21, 2014, from http://www.visibleproductions.com/index.php?page=asset_detail&asset_id=vpl_0477_001
Visual Health Solutions. Retrieved Septermber 21, 2014, from http://www.visibleproductions.com/index.php?page=asset_detail&asset_id=vpl_0477_001
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