Putting It All Together

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to kidney stones.

• Kidney stones are fairly common; 10 percent of all people will experience a kidney stone at some time during life.

• Kidney stones are accumulations of mineral salts and other substances that form solid masses of various sizes within the kidneys or other portions of the urinary tract.

• Calcium stones are the most abundant type of kidney stones.

• Conditions that contribute to the formation of kidney stones include a high concentration of stone-forming substances in the urine, an imbalance of acid in the urine, and a lack of substances help prevent the growth of crystals in the urine.

• Most stones are formed in the kidneys, although some stones can form in the ureters or bladder.

• The symptoms of kidney stones may include excruciating pain, nausea and vomiting, blood in the urine, and increase in frequency or urgency to urinate.

• The diagnosis of kidney stones depends on a physical examination, a clinical history, a laboratory evaluation of blood and urine, and, in some cases, x-rays.

• The treatment of kidney stone disease is primarily based on alternatives to open surgery such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, percutaneous ultrasonic lithotripsy, and laser lithotripsy.

• Preventing kidney stones involves increasing the amount of water you drink, avoiding certain foods, and possibly taking medication.