Guide To Understanding Kidney Stones

Who Is At Risk For Developing Kidney Stones?

Various factors have been known to increase the risk of developing kidney stones, aside from the common causes described previously. A family or individual health history of kidney stones greatly increases the chances of developing them. Certain medical conditions, including obesity, digestive diseases, and pregnancy, can also increase one's risk. Men, people between the ages of twenty and fifty, and those of Caucasian or Asian heritage are most likely to suffer from kidney stones. Lastly, taking certain medications or dietary supplements could increase the chances of developing this painful condition.

How Are Kidney Stones Treated?

Nearly all cases of kidney stones require simple medical intervention. Pain medication is administered to relieve the pain of passing a kidney stone, and drinking a lot of water will facilitate and speed up the process. There is usually no additional damage caused by the kidney stone if the condition is identified in a timely fashion. Rarely, infection or other complications may occur as a result of the kidney stone, and such difficulties will require deeper intervention. In very rare cases, surgery or lithotripsy may be required to remove the kidney stone. Lithotripsy is a procedure that uses shock waves to break down the stone, making it easier for it to pass through the system. However, most kidney stones make it through the urinary tract on their own within forty-eight hours.