Kidney stones refer to tiny, solid formations of minerals and salts that develop within the kidneys. They cause severe pain and discomfort and, in some cases, even lead to serious complications if left untreated.  So, let us explore the causes, treatment options, and prevention tips for kidney stones. That way, you know what to do should you face this issue.

Causes

Kidney stones form when the urine contains high levels of certain substances. These include calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, which crystalise and stick together, forming stones. Some of the other common factors that contribute to the development of kidney stones are as follows:

Dehydration- When you feel dehydrated, your urine becomes concentrated. This increases the likelihood of your body forming stones.
Diet- If you consume foods high in sugar, animal protein, and sodium, you are at a greater risk of developing stones.
Obesity- Obesity is the most common cause of kidney stones. Hence, it is wise to maintain a healthy weight.
Medical conditions- Certain conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism, gout, and urinary tract infections, heighten kidney stones' likelihood.

Treatment

The treatment for this condition depends on the stones' location, severity, and size. Some treatment options include:

Drinking plenty of water: Drinking enough water can help flush out the stones and prevent new ones from forming.
Medications: Medications such as kidney stone tablets, pain relievers and alpha-blockers can ease the pain and facilitate the passage of stones.
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: This procedure uses shock waves for breaking the stones into smaller pieces, which are then passed out of the body.
Ureteroscopy: This involves using a small scope to remove the stones from the ureter.

Prevention tips

Preventing kidney stones helps you avoid the pain and discomfort associated with them. Some prevention tips include:

Drink plenty of water: Drinking enough water helps dilute the urine and prevent the formation of stones. Ensure to drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water daily or more during the summers.
Limit sodium intake: Eating a diet low in sodium prevents the formation of calcium stones.
Eat a balanced diet: A well-balanced diet that involves rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains prevents the formation of stones.
Limit animal protein intake: Overeating animal protein can increase the risk of kidney stones. Try not to consume foods that match this description too much.
Avoid sugary drinks: Drinking too many carbonated beverages increases the risk of kidney stones. Swap them with healthy liquids like water, green tea, coconut water, and fresh fruit juices instead.

If you already have this condition, take your medicines for gallbladder stones or kidney stones, whatever the case, as your doctor advises.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are purely based on external research. For better healthcare, we would recommend you approach a specialist.