Urologists are the doctors who primarily diagnose and treat kidney stones. Urologists specialize in the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. They have expertise in diagnosing and managing kidney stones, offering various treatment options based on the size, location, and composition of the stones.

Some small kidney stones can pass naturally through the urinary tract, but larger stones require medical intervention. If you have any symptom relating to Kidney Stones, consult a Urologist. Treatment will depend on the size, location, and composition of the stones.

Few common symptoms of Kidney Stones are severe pain in the back or side of the body, blood in the urine, frequent urination, urinary urgency, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.

Risk factors for kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, family history of kidney disease, and certain medications. Age can also play a role.

Stones are formed when certain elements in Urine like Oxalate, Calcium, Uric Acid become concentrated and crystallize. This lead to Hard deposits’ formation. Factors that may increase the potential risk of developing kidney stones include:

• Inadequate hydration
• Individuals residing in regions with predominantly warm climates and those prone to excessive sweating
• Consumption of a diet high in protein, sodium, and sugar
• Obesity
• Undergoing gastric bypass surgery, having inflammatory bowel disease, or experiencing chronic diarrhea, as these conditions can impact the digestive process, affecting the absorption of calcium and water
• Presence of other medical conditions such as renal tubular acidosis, cystinuria, and hyperparathyroidism
• Elevated levels of uric acid in the body
• History of recurrent urinary tract infections
• Family history of kidney stones
• Men have a higher susceptibility to developing kidney stones compared to women
• Use of certain medications

1. Medications: Certain medications can help facilitate the passage of kidney stones or alleviate symptoms. For example, alpha-blockers can relax the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for stones to pass. Pain relievers may also be prescribed to manage discomfort during the passage of stones.

2. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This non-invasive procedure uses shock waves to break down larger stones into smaller fragments that can pass more easily through the urinary tract. ESWL is usually performed on an outpatient basis and does not require incisions.

3. Ureteroscopy: Ureteroscopy involves the use of a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera (ureteroscope) that is inserted through the urethra and bladder to reach the ureter or kidney. This allows the urologist to visualize the stone and, if necessary, use specialized tools to break it into smaller pieces or remove it completely.

4. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): This procedure is typically used for larger or more complex stones. It involves making a small incision in the back and using a nephroscope to access and remove the stones directly from the kidney.

5. Surgery: In certain cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to treat kidney stones. For example, if the stones are very large, causing persistent symptoms, or leading to complications such as recurrent infections or kidney damage, the urologist may recommend a surgical procedure such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted stone removal.

There are multiple treatment options to remove the stone without Surgery, but it mainly depends on the Size of the stone and Doctor’s assessment. Please consult a doctor for proper diagnosis. The numerous advanced options for Surgery ensure a painless and hassle-free operation.