Kidney Stones
Comprehensive guide to kidney stones - types, symptoms, treatment and prevention by Dr. Rajesh Goel
What are Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones (renal calculi) are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They develop when urine becomes concentrated, allowing minerals to crystallize and stick together. Kidney stones can affect any part of the urinary tract.
Passing kidney stones can be extremely painful, but most stones pass on their own without permanent damage. Depending on the stone size and type, treatment may include pain management, medication, or surgical procedures.
Types of Kidney Stones
Calcium Oxalate
Most common type (80% of stones). Formed from calcium and oxalate in urine.
Prevention: Reduce oxalate intake, drink plenty of water
Uric Acid
Formed when urine is too acidic. Common in people with gout.
Prevention: Reduce purine intake, alkalinize urine
Struvite
Formed in response to urinary tract infections.
Prevention: Treat UTIs promptly, adequate hydration
Cystine
Rare type caused by genetic disorder (cystinuria).
Prevention: High fluid intake, medications to reduce cystine
Symptoms
Kidney stones may not cause symptoms until they move or block the ureter. Symptoms include:
Treatment Options
💧 Conservative (Small stones < 5mm)
Drink 2-3 liters of water daily, pain management, medical expulsive therapy
⚡ ESWL (Lithotripsy)
Shock waves break stones into smaller pieces that pass naturally
🔬 Ureteroscopy
A thin scope is passed through the urethra to remove or break the stone
🏥 PCNL
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy for large stones (> 2cm) through a small back incision
🏥 Surgery
Open or laparoscopic surgery for very large or complex stones
Prevention Tips
Expert Treatment
Dr. Rajesh Goel provides advanced kidney stone treatment including ESWL, ureteroscopy, and PCNL.
Emergency Signs
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn't improve
- Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
- Blood in urine
- Persistent vomiting
- Difficulty passing urine