Understanding Kidney Stones: Causes and Symptoms
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. These stones can cause significant discomfort and health issues if they migrate to other parts of the urinary tract. Kidney stones, also known as renal stones when they remain in the kidney, can transition to the ureters and become ureteric stones, leading to painful symptoms.
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Causes of Kidney Stones
Colic, a severe cramping pain in the lower abdomen or back, is a common emergency associated with kidney stones. Ureteral stones, the most prevalent cause of colic, can obstruct the urinary tract. Other blockage causes include blood clots, fungal balls, and severe urinary tract infections.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
Patients with kidney stones often experience sudden, intense pain in the back or groin, radiating to the lower abdomen, groin, or testicles. This pain is described as extremely severe, often the worst pain the patient has ever felt. Additionally, a constant dull discomfort caused by the stretching of the kidney capsule is common. This dull pain alternates with acute colic pain due to the peristaltic movements of the ureteral muscles.
Why Does It Hurt?
When a stone moves from the kidney to the urinary tract, it can obstruct urine flow, causing urine to back up into the kidney. This backup stretches the urethra and renal capsule, leading to severe pain. Persistent obstructions are more harmful than intermittent ones, as they can lead to significant kidney damage within 1 to 2 weeks. Interestingly, the pain severity does not correlate with the stone size; smaller stones can cause excruciating pain, while larger stones may pass without discomfort.
Economic Impact
Kidney stones are not just a health burden but also an economic one. Their prevalence has increased over the past decades, leading to substantial costs in treatment and lost productivity. If you suspect you have kidney stones, seeking professional medical advice is crucial to managing the condition effectively.
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