Virtsakivion

Virtsakivion, also known as urinary stones or calculi, are solid masses made of mineral salts that form in the urinary tract. They can develop in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. The formation of these stones is often linked to a combination of factors, including concentrated urine, a diet high in certain minerals, and insufficient fluid intake.

The most common type of urinary stone is made of calcium oxalate. Other types include uric acid stones, struvite stones (often associated with urinary tract infections), and cystine stones. The size of these stones can vary significantly, from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball.

Symptoms of virtsakivion can depend on their size and location. Small stones may pass unnoticed, while larger ones can cause severe pain, particularly in the back and sides, radiating to the lower abdomen and groin. Other symptoms can include blood in the urine, painful urination, nausea, and vomiting.

Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, urine tests, blood tests, and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds. Treatment options range from conservative measures like increased fluid intake and pain management for small stones, to medical procedures like lithotripsy (using shock waves to break up stones) or surgical removal for larger or obstructing stones. Prevention strategies often include increasing water consumption, dietary modifications, and sometimes medication.