Comprehensive Kidney Stones Treatment: From Prevention to Pain Relief
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Kidney stones can cause intense pain, nausea, and a range of other disruptive symptoms that interfere with everyday life. While some kidney stones can pass on their own, others may require medical treatment. Knowing how to prevent kidney stones in the future is equally important. At Kasraeian Urology in Jacksonville, FL, board-certified urologists Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian and Dr. Ali Kasraeian understand the impact kidney stones can have on virtually every aspect of life and are committed to helping patients find relief and prevention with comprehensive kidney stone care, from early diagnosis to advanced treatment and risk mitigation. Here, you'll find answers to kidney stone FAQ, including how to prevent kidney stones, what treatments may relieve kidney stone pain, and more.
What causes kidney stones to form?
Kidney stones form when minerals and salts build up in the urine and crystallize into hard deposits. These deposits can develop almost anywhere along the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. While some people experience a kidney stone only once, others may have recurring stones due to genetics, dietary habits, or other medical conditions. Some of the most common kidney stone risk factors and causes of kidney stones include:
- Dehydration
- High sodium intake
- High-protein or high-oxalate diet
- Obesity
- Family history of kidney stones
- Certain medications
- Urinary tract infections
- Certain medical conditions
Following a thorough consultation and medical history review, Dr. Kasraeian can identify which factors may be contributing to your stones and guide you through a customized kidney stone prevention plan.
What are the symptoms of a kidney stone?
Kidney stone symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the stone. In some cases, small kidney stones may pass without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Sharp pain in the back or side
- Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen or groin
- Blood in the urine
- Frequent urination
- Burning with urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
These symptoms of kidney stones typically worsen as the stone moves through the urinary tract. If you experience these signs, prompt evaluation and treatment may help prevent more serious kidney stone complications.
How are kidney stones treated?
Treatment for kidney stones depends on the type, size, and location of the stone, as well as the severity of symptoms. Some stones can pass with increased fluid intake and pain management, while there are certain kidney stones that require medical intervention. Generally speaking, kidney stone treatment and symptom relief options may include:
- Oral pain relievers
- Alpha-blockers
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL)
- Ureteroscopy with basket extraction or laser lithotripsy
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
During your evaluation, Dr. Kasraeian will assess your overall situation and recommend a treatment plan designed to relieve pain and pass or remove kidney stones with as little disruption as possible.
How can I prevent kidney stones in the future?
After treating your current stone, preventing new kidney stones from forming will become a primary focus of your long-term care. Your specific kidney stone prevention strategy will depend on your individual risk factors and the type of kidney stones you tend to form. At Kasraeian Urology, patients receive a detailed evaluation that may include stone analysis, blood work, and urine testing to uncover underlying causes. Kidney stone prevention strategies may include:
- Increasing daily fluid intake
- Adjusting your diet
- Reducing sodium and animal protein
- Limiting foods high in oxalates
- Starting prescribed medications
- Monitoring urine pH and mineral levels
Our team will work closely with you to implement the most effective steps possible for avoiding future stones and maintaining your urinary health.
Get kidney stone treatment in Jacksonville, FL
Kidney stones can be painful, disruptive, frustrating, and even immobilizing, but effective relief and prevention are possible with the right care. At Kasraeian Urology, board-certified urologists Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian and Dr. Ali Kasraeian are committed to helping patients find relief and reduce their risk of future stones through personalized treatment plans. If you're experiencing kidney stone pain and other symptoms or want to explore your prevention options, contact our Jacksonville, FL, urology office today to schedule a consultation to learn more.