Munuaiskivissä

Munuaiskivissä, also known as kidney stones, are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. These stones can vary in size, from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. While they form in the kidneys, they can travel to other parts of the urinary tract, including the ureters, bladder, and urethra.

The formation of kidney stones is often linked to a lack of sufficient fluid intake. When the body is dehydrated, the concentration of minerals in the urine increases, making it easier for them to crystallize and form stones. Other contributing factors can include diet, genetics, certain medical conditions like obesity, digestive issues, and some medications. The most common types of kidney stones are calcium oxalate stones, followed by uric acid, struvite, and cystine stones.

Symptoms of kidney stones can vary depending on their size and location. Small stones may pass through the urinary tract without causing noticeable discomfort. However, larger stones can cause severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs, pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin, pain that comes in waves, pain or burning sensation during urination, persistent urge to urinate, urinating more frequently than usual, and changes in urine color, such as pink, red, or brown, or cloudy urine. Nausea and vomiting can also occur.

Diagnosis typically involves a review of medical history, a physical examination, and urine and blood tests. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds, are often used to locate the stones and determine their size and position. Treatment depends on the size and type of stone. Small stones may be passed with increased fluid intake and pain medication. Larger stones may require medical procedures, such as lithotripsy, which uses shock waves to break down the stones, or surgical removal. Prevention strategies include increasing fluid intake, dietary modifications, and sometimes medication.