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It isn´t common knowledge that roughly 9% of the population, or one in eleven people, will endure the pain of kidney stones at some point in their lives. Kidney stones can be extremely painful and difficult to pass. Below, with the help of Luzato Medical Group, let´s explore what kidney stones really are, as well as what stage you should see your urologist.
Luzato Medical Group offer the best urology doctors in Manhattan, who are prepared to help any patient, no matter how personal your problem.
What´s A Kidney Stone?
Clinically, there are four varieties of the kidney stone.
- Calcium Stones – Calcium stones are the most common kidney stone. They are caused via a number of factors that include an unbalanced diet, with spinach, beets, nuts and chocolate. Another common cause is high doses of Vitamin D.
- Struvite Stones – Struvite stones are one of the more painful kidney stones. They can be caused by a urinary or kidney infection. Struvite stones can become very large and show relatively few symptoms.
- Uric Acid Stones – Uric acid stones are cause by high levels of animal protein or a lack of healthy fluid such as water.
- Cystine Stones – Cystine stones are the least common and are only created from a genetic disorder.
What Are The Symptoms?
There are a number of symptoms to look out for, should you think that you are suffering from kidney stones. Below you can find the most common examples:
- Severe pain in the back, abdomen, side or groin.
- Discolored or smelly urine.
- Pain when passing urine.
- Frequent urination or difficulty urinating.
- Blood in the urine.
How Can I help Myself?
The number one recommendation is to stay hydrated. You should aim to drink at least two liters of water a day. It is also recommended to monitor your diet. You should not consume foods that are high in oxalate such as spinach, beetroot, potato chips and nuts. And in a last resort you can try medication such as calcium supplements. Medication can help prevent kidney stones but these should only be used in a last resort.
At What Stage Should I See A Urologist?
With kidney stones there are a variety of symptoms to look out for, all of which depend on the type and severity you are suffering from. It´s not an easy diagnosis to know if you have kidney stones or not, let alone whether you require immediate medical attention. So, what´s the best advice about knowing whether you should go to the ER or make an appointment with your urologist?
First let´s look at the non-immediate symptoms. Of course they will be concerning, however they are not urgent. Should you experience any of these symptoms, it´s advisable to book an appointment with your urologist:
- Pelvic, lower back or side pain.
- Painful or persistent urination.
- Blood in your urine.
- Frequent urinary tract infections.
Now let´s look at some symptoms where you should consider a trip to the hospital:
- Severe and persistent pain.
- Urine blockage.
- Vomiting or nausea.
- Fever.
- Foul smelling urine.
Should you experience any of the above symptoms related to kidney stones, you should promptly visit a medical professional. The doctors will be able to perform tests and determine if the kidney stone needs to be removed with surgery or whether it will pass naturally. They will also be able to tell you whether or not your kidney stone has caused a more serious issue.
Dr. Jack Bruder, a Luzato Medical Group urologist, helps prevent and treat kidney stones. A leading urology doctor in New York City, he has dealt with thousands of cases involving kidney stones and is an expert in the field. Should you be interested in arranging an appointment for the best urologist New York City services, give the Luzato Medical Group a call at (212) 661-7003.
