Kidney stones: What are the first signs?

Kidney stones are hard lumps of small crystals (chemicals) that form in one or both kidneys and commonly affect people who are 30 to 60 years old.

Here to provide an expert insight into kidney stones, including symptoms, risk factors and treatment, is Mr Moeketsi Mokete, renowned consultant urological surgeon with practice in Preston.

What are the first signs of kidney stones?

Kidney stones can cause a variety of symptoms. The most common symptom is severe pain that starts suddenly and then disappears suddenly, which is usually felt in the back or at the side, below the ribs. 

Other symptoms of kidney stones include:

• painful urination
• pink, red or brown urine
• cloudy or smelly urine
• a persistent need to urinate, urinating more often than usual, or urinating in small amounts
• nausea and vomiting
• fever and chills, if an infection is present

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a specialist as soon as possible. A specialist can diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate treatment options.

How and why do kidney stones form?

Kidney stones form when your urine contains more crystal-forming substances (such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid) than the fluid in the urine is able to dilute. At the same time, kidney stones can also form if your urine lacks the substances that prevent crystals from sticking together. This creates an optimal environment for kidney stones.

There is no specific cause for the formation of kidney stones, but several factors can increase the risk.

These risk factors include:

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water greatly increases your risk for kidney stones. People who live in hot and dry climates and who sweat a lot are also at increased risk.
• A family history of kidney stones: People with a family member who has had kidney stones are more likely to develop kidney stone disease as well.
• Certain foods: Oxalate (a compound in vegetables and grains), a high-sodium diet, and foods that raise acid levels, also increase your risk for kidney stones.
• Obesity: A high bodyweight increases your risk for kidney stones.
• Digestive tract conditions or surgery: For example, inflammatory bowel disease or gastric bypass surgery.
• Certain medical conditions: For example, hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis (an inflammatory disease), urinary tract infections, and some cancers.

How can kidney stones damage the kidneys?

Kidney stones can cause kidney damage in many different ways. An untreated obstructing kidney stone that causes persistent and severe blockage can eventually cause atrophy in a kidney. This results in a dilated and thinned out kidney with minimal function.

However, if a kidney stone is not causing any obstruction or infection, then it usually does not cause any permanent damage to the kidneys.

What are the different options for treatment?

The treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and the location of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms.

These are some of the treatment options available:

• Drinking water: Drinking enough water is one of the most important things that can be done to prevent kidney stones. If you have a small kidney stone that is likely to pass on its own, your doctor may recommend drinking enough fluids to help flush it out.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve mild pain caused by kidney stones.
• Medication: Medications such as alpha blockers or calcium channel blockers can help relax the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for your body to pass the kidney stone.
• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): ESWL uses sound waves to break up large kidney stones into smaller pieces that can then pass through the urinary tract more easily.
• Ureteroscopy: This procedure involves passing a thin tube with a camera through the urethra and the bladder into the ureters to remove the kidney stone.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A PCNL involves making a small incision in your back and using a scope to remove large stones from the kidneys.

Can kidney stones pass on their own?

Small kidney stones may pass on their own without treatment. However, larger kidney stones will likely require medical intervention.

If you have a kidney stone that is too large to pass on its own or is causing other complications, such as infection or obstruction, then your doctor may recommend one of the various treatment options available.

How often do kidney stones recur?

Kidney stones can recur. The likelihood of recurrence depends on several factors, including the type of kidney stone, your family history, as well as your diet and lifestyle.

If you had a kidney stone in the past, it is important to take steps to prevent future stones from forming such as drinking enough water. In addition, your doctor may also recommend dietary changes or medication.

Mr Moeketsi Mokete is a renowned consultant urological surgeon with over 25 years’ clinical experience who specialises in a wide range of urological conditions.

If you are concerned about kidney stones, do not hesitate to book an appointment with Mr Mokete via his Top Doctors profile today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment.