Dr. Saurabh Jain – Kidney Stone Doctor in Jaipur

What are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are solid accumulations of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys, bladder, and pelvic ureteric junction. They are primarily composed of calcium, oxalate, and phosphate, with cystine and xanthine being less common. Although kidney stones are more prevalent in middle-aged men, they can affect individuals of any age.

These stones vary in size and shape, ranging from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. While many kidney stones pass naturally within days to weeks, some can be persistent and cause severe pain. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove them.

Delaying kidney stone treatment can lead to serious complications like tissue damage and ureter blockage, causing severe abdominal pain. Don’t wait—contact Dr. Saurabh Jain, a trusted kidney stone doctor in Jaipur, today for a free consultation and expert guidance on effective kidney stone treatment in Jaipur.

How are Kidney Stones formed?

Kidney stones form due to a concentration of toxic waste in the urine, which can occur when fluid intake is insufficient. Normally, kidneys filter waste from the blood, excreting it as urine. When waste substances become too concentrated, they can crystallise and aggregate, forming kidney stones.

Certain salts and minerals, such as calcium, contribute to about 80% of kidney stone cases. Diets high in calcium or oxalate can lead to increased calcium oxalate in urine, a common precursor to kidney stone formation. Additionally, kidney stones may result from factors like frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs), elevated uric acid levels from high animal protein consumption, and specific lifestyle choices.

Types of Kidney Stones

• Calcium stones
• Struvite stones
• Cystine stones
• Uric acid stones

Causes of Kidney Stones

• Low fluid intake (Dehydration)
• High consumption of calcium supplements
• Diet rich in animal proteins
• Excessive salt intake
• Family history of kidney stones
• Chronic diarrhea

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

• Severe back pain in the flank area
• Nausea and vomiting
• Painful urination
• Foul-smelling urine
• Fevers and chills
• Presence of blood in urine

Diagnostic tests for kidney stones

Imaging Studies

• X-ray: Detects calcium-containing stones, which are often visible on plain X-rays.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys and urinary tract, helpful for detecting stones.
• CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Provides detailed images to accurately locate and assess the size of kidney stones, even very small ones.
• Urinalysis: Analyzes a urine sample to detect substances that may promote stone formation and to check for signs of infection or blood in the urine.

Blood Tests

• Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine: To assess kidney function and determine if kidney stones have affected kidney function.
• Calcium, uric acid, and electrolyte levels: To identify imbalances that contribute to stone formation.
• 24-Hour Urine Collection: This test evaluates urine volume and chemical composition over a 24-hour period to identify factors contributing to stone formation.
• Stone Analysis: If a stone is passed or removed, it can be analyzed to determine its composition, which helps guide treatment and prevention strategies.

What if Stones are Not Treated?

If kidney stones are not treated, they may grow in size without causing immediate pain or discomfort. However, untreated stones can lead to serious complications. Seeking medical treatment is crucial to prevent these potential complications, which can include:

• Hydronephrosis: Swelling of the kidney due to urine buildup when it fails to drain properly.
• Renal scarring and kidney damage: Prolonged presence of stones can lead to permanent damage and even kidney failure.
• Septicemia: Severe infections in the bloodstream, which can be life-threatening.
• Loss of kidney function: In severe cases, kidney stones may necessitate kidney removal (nephrectomy) due to impaired kidney function.
• Urinary tract obstruction: Stones lodged in the ureter can block urine flow, leading to bladder blockage and painful urinary retention.

When to visit a Kidney Stone Doctor in Jaipur?

It’s important to see a urologist in Jaipur if you experience severe pain that does not ease with rest or when trying to find a comfortable position. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills accompanying the pain should also prompt immediate medical attention. Additionally, seek urgent care if you notice blood in your urine or have significant difficulty passing urine. These signs indicate the need for prompt evaluation and treatment by a kidney stone specialist or urologist in Jaipur.

Treatment Options for Kidney Stones Removal in Jaipur

Treatment options for kidney stone removal in Jaipur depend on factors such as the size, location, composition of the stone, and the severity of symptoms. Common treatment options include:

• Watchful Waiting (for small stones): Small stones that are not causing symptoms may pass naturally with increased fluid intake and pain management.

Medications

Pain Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids to manage pain during the passing of stones.

Alpha-blockers: Medications that relax the muscles of the ureter, helping stones to pass more easily.

• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): Uses shock waves to break large stones into smaller pieces that can pass more easily through urine.
• Ureteroscopy (URS): A thin scope is inserted through the urethra and bladder to directly remove or break up stones in the ureter or kidney using laser energy.
• Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A surgical procedure to remove larger stones from the kidney using a small incision and specialized instruments.
• Surgical Removal (Nephrolithotomy): Open surgery may be required for very large stones or when other treatments are not suitable.

The choice of treatment depends on the specific characteristics of the kidney stones and the patient’s overall health. It is important for individuals experiencing kidney stone symptoms to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate kidney stone treatment in Jaipur.