Kidney pain and stones

The main causes of kidney stones are a high concentration of minerals in the urine, inadequate fluid intake, certain dietary habits (e.g. high consumption of oxalate-rich foods such as spinach and rhubarb), genetic predisposition and metabolic disorders. Other risk factors include urinary tract infections, obesity and certain medications.

• Severe, wave-like pain in the back, side or lower abdomen, known as renal colic.
• Blood in the urine (hematuria).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Frequent urge to urinate and pain when urinating.
• Fever and chills with concomitant infection.

Diagnosis is based on a combination of medical history, physical examination and imaging procedures. A urinalysis can provide indications of infections or increased mineral concentrations. Imaging procedures such as ultrasound, X-rays or CT scans help to determine the exact location and size of the stones.

• Drug therapy: Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the pain. Alpha-blockers can help to relax the muscles in the ureters and make it easier for the stone to pass.
• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): Shock waves break up the stones into smaller pieces, which can then be excreted in the urine.
• Ureteroscopy: A thin instrument is inserted into the urinary tract to directly remove or fragment the stone.
• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A surgical procedure in which larger stones are removed through a small incision in the back.

Regular fluid intake, a balanced, high-fiber diet and avoiding oxalate-rich foods can help to reduce the risk of kidney stones forming. If you are known to be prone to kidney stones, regular check-ups and preventive examinations by a urologist are recommended.