How Are Kidney Stones Diagnosed?

Are you experiencing sharp pain in your side or back, blood in your urine, or frequent urination? If so, you may have kidney stones. Diagnosing kidney stones typically involves a physical exam, urine and blood tests, and imaging such as a CT scan or an x-ray to confirm the size and location of the stone. 

 At Kasraeian Urology, fellowship-trained and board-certified urologist Dr. Ali Kasraeian and nationally recognized board-certified urologist Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian offer advanced evaluation and treatment for painful kidney stones in Jacksonville, FL. Call today to schedule an appointment and get the answers you need about your symptoms. 

What causes kidney stones? 

So, what causes kidney stones? They form when urine becomes concentrated enough that minerals and salts stick together and crystallize into hard, rock-like deposits. Diets high in sodium, protein, or sugar can increase this risk, along with several other risk factors:  

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water allows urine to become more concentrated. 
• A history of kidney stones: Having had a kidney stone in the past raises your chances of developing another. 
• Genetics: A family history of kidney stones increases your own risk. 
• Being overweight: Excess weight is linked to a higher likelihood of stone formation. 
• Certain medications and kidney conditions: Some prescriptions and underlying kidney or renal issues can contribute to stone development. 

Understanding your own risk factors is the first step toward preventing future kidney stones. 

How kidney stones are diagnosed 

Diagnosing kidney stones usually starts with an exam and a review of your symptoms and medical history. Urine testing can reveal blood or other signs pointing to a kidney stone, while blood tests check for elevated calcium or uric acid levels and give a broader picture of kidney health. 

Imaging plays a key role in diagnosing kidney stones. A CT scan or abdominal x-ray shows the size, shape, and exact location of a stone, while ultrasound is sometimes used instead, particularly for pregnant patients. Together, these tests help our team determine the best treatment approach possible for your specific stone. 

Your kidney stone treatment options 

Treatment generally depends on the size and location of the kidney stone. Smaller stones often pass on their own with fluids and pain management, but larger or harder-to-pass stones may need a procedure. Ureteroscopy uses a small scope to locate and remove stones from the ureter, while extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy uses advanced sound waves to break stones into smaller fragments that pass more easily. 

For larger or unusually shaped stones, percutaneous nephrolithotomy removes the stone through a small incision in the back, and our staff will discuss which kidney stone treatment fits your specific situation. 

Our team at Kasraeian Urology in Jacksonville, FL will recommend the least invasive option appropriate for your case, and can also help identify what's contributing to stone formation to reduce your risk of recurrence and future episodes of frequent urination or pain. 

Find relief from painful kidney stones in Jacksonville, FL 

Kidney stones can cause real pain, but accurate kidney stone treatment starts with a proper diagnosis. If you're experiencing frequent urination, pain, or have questions such as, "What causes kidney stones?" Dr. Ali Kasraeian and Dr. Ahmad Kasraeian at Kasraeian Urology can evaluate your risk factors and provide the care you need. Call today to schedule an appointment in Jacksonville, FL, and start feeling better.