Kidney stones
Kidney stones are hard pieces of mineral that form inside the kidney and can move down the tube (ureter) towards the bladder. They are common in Afghanistan, especially in hot weather and in people who drink too little water. A moving stone can cause very severe pain; many small stones pass on their own, but some need treatment.
Symptoms
- Sudden severe pain in the side or back, spreading to the lower belly or groin
- Pain that comes in waves; unable to sit still
- Blood in the urine (pink, red or brown)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Burning or frequent urination
- Fever and chills if there is also infection (an emergency)
Causes
- Drinking too little water, especially in summer heat
- A diet high in salt and meat
- Family history of stones
- Repeated urinary infections
- Some conditions such as gout and being overweight
Prevention
- Drink enough water to keep your urine pale yellow, usually 2.5 to 3 litres a day and more in hot weather
- Eat less salt and less red meat
- Keep normal amounts of milk, yoghurt and other calcium foods; do not cut them out
- Lemon juice in water may help
- Keep a healthy weight
Treatment
- Pain relief prescribed by a doctor
- Drinking plenty of fluids while a small stone passes
- Sometimes a medicine that relaxes the ureter, prescribed by a doctor
- Larger stones may need shock-wave treatment (lithotripsy), removal with a telescope, or surgery
- Tests to find the stone type and prevent new stones
- Do not use herbal stone-breaking remedies instead of seeing a doctor
Common questions
Will a kidney stone come back?
About half of people who have had one stone get another within 5 to 10 years. Drinking enough water every day is the most important way to prevent new stones.
Should I stop drinking milk and eating yoghurt?
No. Cutting out calcium foods can actually increase some types of stones. Keep normal amounts of milk and yoghurt and reduce salt instead, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.