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Renal stones, also known as kidney stones, are solid masses formed in the kidneys or urinary tract from substances that are normally found in urine. These substances may include calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and cystine. Kidney stones can vary in size from a small grain of sand to a large golf ball and can cause significant pain and discomfort as they pass through the urinary tract.
The exact cause of kidney stones is not always known, but risk factors include dehydration, a diet high in salt or animal protein, obesity, family history of kidney stones, and certain medical conditions such as gout, hyperparathyroidism, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Symptoms of kidney stones may include severe pain in the back or side, nausea and vomiting, fever and chills, and blood in the urine. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, and urine analysis to identify the type of stone.
Treatment for kidney stones depends on the size and location of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms. Small stones may pass through the urinary tract on their own with the help of pain medication and plenty of fluids to flush out the stone. Larger stones may require medical intervention, such as shock wave lithotripsy, which uses sound waves to break up the stone, or ureteroscopy, which involves using a small scope to remove the stone.
Prevention of kidney stones involves maintaining good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids, reducing salt and animal protein in the diet, and avoiding high-oxalate foods such as spinach, chocolate, and nuts. Medications may also be prescribed to help prevent the formation of stones in individuals with a history of recurrent stones or underlying medical conditions.