Kidney stones are a surprisingly common issue, causing discomfort and significantly impacting everyday activities.

Are you someone who is suffering from kidney stones or recently having left side pain? Wondering why it is caused? Want to know more about its treatment?

In this blog, Mykare Health will unpack the link between kidney pain and treatment, discuss common symptoms, and provide practical solutions.

We’ll also explore dietary habits, focusing on foods to avoid for kidney stones, to help you maintain better kidney health.

And if you are looking for kidney stone removal, Mykare’s minimally invasive kidney stone removal is apt for you! Read on to find more details.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones form when certain minerals and salts in urine, like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, build up and crystallize. Over time, these small crystals grow into larger stones.

While some stones pass through the urinary tract unnoticed, others may cause blockages, triggering sharp and often severe pain.

Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Recognizing the symptoms early can help prevent the condition from worsening. You should watch out for these signs

• Sharp lower back pain: This is one of the common symptoms. It mostly occurs at the back or side, just beneath the ribs, and sometimes radiates down toward the lower abdomen or groin area.

• Discomfort in the left kidney area: If the pain is at the left side, this would point to a stone in your left kidney or an obstruction of the left ureter.

• Frequent and urgent need to urinate: A constant urge to urinate, even when passing only small amounts, can be another warning sign.

• Blood in the urine: Kidney stones can cause minor cuts in the urinary tract, leading to pink, red, or brown-colored urine.

• Nausea and vomiting: Painful kidney stones can disrupt digestion, causing nausea or even vomiting.

• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine: This could indicate dehydration or an accompanying urinary tract infection.

Why Do Kidney Stones Form?

Understanding what triggers kidney stones is crucial for prevention. Several factors can contribute to their formation

• Dehydration: Inadequate intake of water concentrates the urine and allows the crystallization of minerals.

• Diet: A high consumption of sodium, oxalate-containing foods, or animal protein elevates the risk for forming stones.

• Genetic factor: The history of kidney stones among family members raises your risk.

• Underlying medical conditions: Diseases like gout or urinary infections can provide an environment where stones can form.

Diagnosing Kidney Stones

A healthcare provider can confirm the suspicion of having kidney stones with

• Imaging tests: It involves ultrasounds or CT scans that identify the size and location of the stone.

• Urine test: A simple test can show abnormalities in your urine.

• Blood tests: These reveal the imbalance minerals, such as calcium or uric acid.

Kidney Pain: Treatment and Solution

Treatment depends on the type and size of the kidney stone. Here are common approaches

1. Medications

Pain relievers can help manage discomfort. Alpha-blockers are often prescribed to relax the muscles in your urinary tract, making it easier to pass the stone.

2. Hydration Therapy

Drinking plenty of water is key. Increased fluid intake helps flush out smaller stones naturally.

3. Medical Interventions

• Shock Wave Therapy (SWL): High-energy waves break larger stones into smaller fragments.

• Ureteroscopy: A thin scope is used to locate and remove stones.

• Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery using small cuts and a camera to find and remove larger or complex kidney stones, especially when other methods like SWL or ureteroscopy don't work.

• Surgical Removal: Larger or complex stones may require minimally invasive surgery.

Mykare Health offers an effective laparoscopic procedure with expert care, ensuring a hassle-free experience and quick recovery.

Home Remedies to Ease Pain

While professional care is essential, some home remedies can provide temporary relief

• Warm compresses: Applying heat to the affected area can help reduce discomfort.

• Lemon water: Citric acid in lemons can help prevent certain types of stones.

• Herbal teas: Dandelion or nettle leaf tea may assist in cleansing the kidneys.

Foods to Avoid for Kidney Stones

Diet significantly influences kidney stone development. Avoiding specific foods can lower your risk

• Excess salt: High sodium levels force your kidneys to excrete more calcium, which can lead to stones. Reduce your intake of processed and packaged foods.

• Oxalate-rich foods: Spinach, beets, and almonds are high in oxalates and should be consumed sparingly, especially if you’re prone to calcium oxalate stones.

• Animal proteins: Foods like red meat and shellfish can elevate uric acid levels, increasing the risk of stone formation.

• Sugary drinks: Beverages like colas and energy drinks can dehydrate you and exacerbate stone formation.

Preventing Kidney Stones

Preventing kidney stones involves adopting healthier habits. Here are some tips

• Stay Hydrated: Aim to drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily to dilute your urine.

• Moderate Your Calcium Intake: While calcium is essential, excessive consumption can lead to stones. Balance is key.

• Reduce Salt in Your Diet: Lowering your sodium intake can decrease calcium levels in urine.

• Opt for Plant-Based Proteins: Replace some animal proteins with beans, lentils, and tofu to reduce uric acid production.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience severe sharp pain in the lower back or persistent pain in the left kidney area, consult a doctor immediately. Delayed treatment could result in complications like infection or kidney damage.

Act now—let Mykare Health connect you with trusted specialists and effective treatment options to ensure your quick recovery and peace of mind!

Conclusion

Kidney stones are a painful but manageable condition. Recognising symptoms like pain in the left kidney area and making dietary changes, including avoiding certain foods to manage kidney stones, can significantly reduce your risk.

Proper hydration, timely treatment, and preventive measures are your best defenses against recurring stones.

Your kidneys are vital to your overall health—don’t take them for granted. Stay proactive, eat wisely, and prioritise hydration to maintain healthy kidneys for years to come.