What are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. They can cause severe pain and discomfort as they pass through the urinary tract. At Urology Specialists of Georgia, we provide comprehensive care to diagnose, treat, and prevent kidney stones, helping patients achieve relief and maintain optimal kidney health.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

• Severe Pain: Sharp pain in the back, side, lower abdomen, or groin.
• Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): Pink, red, or brown urine.
• Frequent Urination: An increased need to urinate.
• Painful Urination: Burning sensation during urination.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Often accompany severe pain.
• Fever and Chills: Indicate an infection.

Causes of Kidney Stones

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can concentrate minerals in the urine.
• Diet: High intake of salt, protein, and sugar can increase the risk of kidney stones.
• Family History: Genetics can play a role in the development of kidney stones.
• Obesity: Excess weight can affect the composition of urine and increase stone risk.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like hyperparathyroidism and urinary tract infections can contribute to stone formation.
• Medications: Certain medications can increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones.

How are Kidney Stones Diagnosed?

• Medical History: Review of symptoms and family history.
• Physical Examination: Assessing pain and discomfort.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasounds to detect and locate stones.
• Urine Testing: Analyzing urine for crystals, bacteria, and blood.
• Blood Tests: Checking for high levels of minerals that can form stones.
• Stone Analysis: Laboratory analysis of passed stones to determine their composition.

Treatment Options for Kidney Stones

• Medication: Pain relievers, alpha-blockers to relax ureter muscles, and medications to prevent future stones.
• Hydration: Increasing fluid intake to help flush out the stones.
• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): Using shock waves to break stones into smaller pieces that can be passed in urine.
• Ureteroscopy: A thin tube is inserted through the urethra and bladder to break up or remove stones.
• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy: Surgical removal of large stones through a small incision in the back.
• Dietary Changes: Adjusting diet to prevent future stone formation.

Prevention of Kidney Stones

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to dilute urine and prevent stone formation.
• Dietary Modifications: Reduce intake of salt, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods.
• Medications: Preventative medications for those with a history of recurrent stones.
• Regular Check-Ups: Monitoring kidney health and making adjustments as needed.

Why Choose Urology Specialists of Georgia for Kidney Stone Treatment?

• Experienced Specialists: Our team has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating kidney stones with a patient-centered approach.
• Advanced Technology: We utilize the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies to provide the best possible care.
• Comprehensive Care: From initial diagnosis to treatment and prevention, we offer a full spectrum of kidney stone services.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor our treatment plans to meet the specific needs of each patient, ensuring optimal results.

I felt completely at ease with the staff at Urology Specialists of Georgia. Their professionalism and compassion made all the difference in my recovery.

– Mary S.

The care I received at Urology Specialists of Georgia was exceptional. The team was knowledgeable and supportive, helping me navigate my treatment options and improving my quality of life.

– John D.