Kivettymistä

Kivettymistä is a Finnish term that translates to "stone formation" or "lithiasis" in English, and it commonly refers to the formation of stones within the body, particularly in the urinary system. The most prevalent type is kidney stones, which develop in the kidneys from mineral and salt deposits. These stones can vary in size, from small grains to larger, more obstructive formations.

The formation of kivettymistä is typically influenced by a combination of factors, including dehydration, dietary habits, metabolic disorders, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions. When the urine becomes concentrated, minerals such as calcium, uric acid, or cystine can crystallize and aggregate to form stones.

Symptoms of kivettymistä may include severe pain often described as colicky in the back or side, hematuria (blood in the urine), nausea, and frequent urination. However, small stones may remain asymptomatic and be discovered incidentally during imaging studies.

Diagnosis usually involves urinalysis, blood tests, and imaging techniques such as ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scans. Treatment depends on the size and location of the stones. Small stones may pass spontaneously with increased fluid intake and pain management, while larger or symptomatic stones may require medical intervention, including extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), surgical removal, or other procedures.

Prevention strategies include maintaining adequate hydration, dietary modifications to reduce intake of stone-forming substances, and managing underlying health conditions that predispose individuals to stone formation. Regular medical follow-up is recommended for individuals with a history of kivettymistä to prevent recurrence.