Understanding Kidney Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
What Are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form in the kidneys. They develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid to crystallize and stick together. These stones vary in size from tiny grains to larger, more painful stones. While small stones can pass through the urinary tract unnoticed, larger stones may cause severe pain and blockages. Kidney stones are a common health issue, affecting millions worldwide.
Factors like dehydration, diet, obesity, and certain medical conditions increase the risk of developing stones. Understanding their formation helps in prevention and management, reducing the risk of complications like infections or kidney damage. Proper hydration and lifestyle changes are key to minimizing the risk of stone formation.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
The primary symptom of kidney stones is excruciating pain, often described as sharp or cramping, typically in the back or side and…