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Key points
Key points- Renal lithiasis, also called kidney stones, is related to chronic dehydration and to habits such as excessive salt intake.
- Symptoms are caused by the blockage a stone creates in the ureter and usually include severe pain on one side or in the back.
- Treatment depends on the size of the stone and where it is located in the urinary tract.
- A stone that stays in the ureter for a long time can cause kidney failure, which can become irreversible.
- Drinking enough water and moderating salt, processed foods, and animal protein can help prevent new stones.
What is renal lithiasis?
Renal lithiasis, also known as kidney stones or renal calculi, is a condition that occurs mostly in adults and is related to chronic dehydration. Treatment depends on the size of the stone and where it is located in the urinary tract.
The stones are made of minerals, mostly calcium, and they are rigid. A stone can take several months to form and grow large enough to cause a blockage.
Causes of renal lithiasis
Low hydration
Limited fluid intake.
Exercise without hydration
Strenuous exercise without proper hydration.
Too much salt
Excessive salt intake.
Sun exposure
Continuous outdoor activities with sun exposure.
Heat at work
Working in high-temperature environments, such as kitchens and factories.
Sedentary lifestyle
Lack of physical activity.
Symptoms of kidney stones
Symptoms are caused by the blockage that stones create in the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
Severe pain
Starts quickly and is located on one side, in the back, or in the lower abdomen, depending on where the stone is.
Discomfort when urinating
Burning, blood in the urine (hematuria), urgency, a frequent need to urinate, or bladder tenesmus.
Nausea, vomiting, or fever
Nausea and vomiting; fever, if a urinary tract infection develops.
How renal lithiasis is diagnosed
Urinary lithiasis is diagnosed with X-ray studies, and a CT scan is generally considered the most reliable study.
How to treat renal lithiasis
Treatment depends on the size of the stone and where it is located in the urinary tract. The right option for each case is decided with the specialist.
Medication, for small stones
Small stones can be passed with medication or on their own, always under the direction and follow-up of a specialist.
Endoscopic laser surgery
Minimally invasive: small cameras are introduced through the urethra, stones are broken up with a laser and removed, with no skin incisions. Discomfort and recovery vary from patient to patient.
Open surgery
Also among the options, depending on the size of the stone and where it is located.
How to prevent new kidney stones
People who have already had stones in the urinary tract have a considerable chance of forming them again in the following years. These measures can help keep stones from forming.
Analyze the fragments
It is advisable to analyze the stone fragments to learn their exact composition and help prevent future stones.
Drink enough water
Depending on your lifestyle and body composition.
Protect yourself from sun and heat
Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and high temperatures.
Moderate your diet
Moderate your intake of salt, processed foods, and animal protein.
Evaluation with a specialist
If you have any of these symptoms or have had kidney stones before, it is advisable to have your case evaluated by a urologist to determine the right studies and treatment. In Puerto Vallarta, Dr. Bricio can evaluate your case and explain the available options.
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