Specialists in Urology Assist Patients with Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are a very painful and common medical issue, affecting about one in ten Americans. Most people who are afflicted with the nausea and pain of this condition are between 30 and 45 years of age, although all age groups can experience kidney stones. Treatment for kidney stones varies widely, depending on composition, size, location, and comorbidities. For example, stones that are smaller than 4mm in diameter can usually be passed with no medical intervention.
However, stones larger than 4mm in diameter often require treatment, frequently at a urological ambulatory surgery center. These centers provide a variety of treatment options, including the holmium laser, which can target and break up stones with a beam of light. Another treatment option involves shockwave lithotripsy machines (ESWL), which use shockwaves on kidney stones to eliminate them without injuring tissue nearby. Medical professionals may also rely on miniature ureteroscopes, which are inserted into the urethra to allow surgeons to see the stones in order to eliminate them. For larger kidney stones, percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) or other surgery may be required to remove the stone. These more invasive surgeries are generally only used when other treatment options are not possible.
At Specialists in Urology, we are experienced in these and other kidney treatment options. However, the Specialists in Urology medical team also believe in preventative measures, which is why our team offer dietary and preventative measures as well. With blood work, 24-hour urine collection, chemical stone analysis, and other tests, it is possible to address the most common risk factors for kidney stones and to help patients enjoy far fewer recurrences of kidney stones.
There are many things that patients with kidney stones can do to help prevent kidney stones in the future. Drinking more fluids to increase urine production to 2500 cc or more daily is an excellent preventative measure, as is eating citrus fruits such as pineapples, oranges, lemons, and limes. Patients who have stones formed from calcium oxalate may be able to avoid further stones by avoiding foods rich in oxalate. These foods include black pepper, chocolate, nuts, and spinach.
A low salt diet can also help. If patients do not need calcium supplements and have good bond density, stopping calcium supplements can also help prevent future stones. Due to the risk of osteoporosis, however, it is a good idea to discuss any such decision with a physician. Patients who suffer from uric acid kidney stones can eat less poultry, beef, and shellfish to prevent future stones. They can also take potassium citrate, which can help urine at a pH of 6.5-7.0, which can help prevent further development of stones. Since many kidney stone sufferers have recurring kidney stones, taking some preventative measures is advisable.
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