Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can vary in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball and can affect any part of the urinary tract, from the kidneys to the bladder. Stones form when the urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. Common symptoms include severe pain in the back, side, lower abdomen, or groin, blood in the urine, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment options include drinking plenty of water to help pass the stone, medication to manage pain, and in severe cases, medical procedures such as shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or surgery to remove the stone. Prevention involves staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and sometimes taking medications to reduce the risk of recurrence.