In the dead of night, have you ever been awakened by a burst of pain? It may be a kidney stone "at work". Kidney stones not only bring unbearable pain, but also are invisible killers of health. In the face of this pain, understanding its causes and how to effectively remove stones is a topic that every patient and his family must face. This article will discuss the causes of kidney stones and how to pass them smoothly through scientific methods under the guidance of internal medicine experts.
Causes and risk factors of kidney stones: demystifying the "pain in the stone"
1. Causes of stones: It's not just about diet
Although many people believe that the formation of kidney stones is related to a diet high in calcium and salt, in fact this is only part of the factors. The formation of kidney stones is a complex physiological process involving metabolic imbalances in the body and supersaturated deposition of minerals in the urine. When substances such as calcium, oxalic acid, uric acid, or phosphate in the urine exceed normal values, they gradually crystallize and form stones.
2. Body Dehydration: The "Catalyst" for Stones
Dehydration is another key factor that leads to the formation of kidney stones. When there is not enough water in the body, the urine is concentrated, the ability to dissolve minerals is weakened, and stones are more likely to form. This explains why the incidence of kidney stones is higher during the hot summer months or in people who do not rehydrate in time after physical exertion.
3. Genetic factors: clues in family history
Studies have shown that there is a certain genetic predisposition to kidney stones. If someone in the family has had kidney stones, the risk of other family members is also relatively high. Genetic factors may affect an individual's metabolic profile, including the ability to absorb and excrete certain minerals, increasing the risk of stones.
4. Lifestyle Influences: Activity vs. Stillness
Lifestyle choices also have a direct impact on the formation of kidney stones. Lack of exercise can lead to a slow metabolism in the body, which can affect the normal excretion of minerals and increase the risk of stone formation. Conversely, moderate exercise can help boost metabolism and maintain the normal flow of urine.
5. Drug Side Effects: A Double-edged Sword
Certain medications, such as diuretics and anti-epileptic medications, may alter the chemical composition of the urine, increasing the risk of kidney stones. Doctors weigh the pros and cons when prescribing this type of medication and advise patients to increase their water intake to prevent stones.
Modern methods for diagnosing kidney stones: precise detection, rapid confirmation
Today, with the increasing progress of medicine, the diagnosis of kidney stones no longer relies on a single symptom analysis. Modern medicine utilizes a variety of advanced technologies to ensure the accuracy and speed of diagnosis, allowing effective treatment to be initiated quickly.
Imaging tests: ultrasound and CT scan
The most common diagnostic tools are ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT). Ultrasound is not only inexpensive, but also does not require the use of radiation, making it suitable for initial screening and monitoring of changes in stones. CT scans are widely used to confirm the diagnosis due to their high sensitivity, especially in the presence of acute symptoms, to quickly determine the exact location and size of the stone.
Urine and blood analysis: to look for metabolic abnormalities
Urinalysis helps doctors detect crystals, blood cells, proteins, and other pathological substances in the urine to speculate on possible stone types and metabolic abnormalities. Blood tests can reveal biochemical changes associated with stone formation, such as calcium, uric acid, and creatinine levels.
Stone removal strategies recommended by internal medicine experts: highly effective therapy, unimpeded
For patients with kidney stones, medical treatment alone does not completely solve the problem, and a more specific stone removal strategy is required. Internal medicine specialists usually recommend treatment based on the type, size and location of the stone.
Drinking water and diet management: the first step in natural stone expulsion
Increasing daily water intake is the cornerstone of the prevention and treatment of kidney stones. Experts recommend consuming at least 2.5 to 3 litres of water a day to increase urine output and help small stones pass naturally. At the same time, adjusting the diet to reduce the intake of foods high in salt, protein and oxalic acid can also effectively prevent the formation of stones.
Drug therapy: accelerates the passage of stones
For uric acid stones, medications that alkalize the urine, such as sodium bicarbonate or potassium sodium citrate, may be used to promote the dissolution of the stones. Calcium stones may require medications to control calcium absorption and metabolism in the body.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: non-invasive and highly effective
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy shock waves to crush stones in the kidneys or ureters and is suitable for stones up to 2 cm in diameter. This method is less painful and has a faster recovery, making it the technique of choice in modern stone removal treatment.
With these modern diagnostic and stone removal strategies, patients with kidney stones can expect to reduce symptoms and effectively manage and treat kidney stones without affecting daily life. It is important that patients work closely with medical professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan that ensures the best outcome of treatment and minimal risk of recurrence.