Kidney Stones Treatment
The kidneys are the filtering organs for your body, removing toxins and metabolic by-products from the blood. In some cases, small deposits of salt and minerals can form in the kidneys, a condition called kidney stones. These stones are usually very small, but some can become large and cause problems if they move through the urinary tract. If you have painful kidney stones, treatment is available at Beverly Hills Concierge Doctor. We can provide treatment seven days a week at our urgent care center in Los Angeles, CA.
What Causes Kidney Stones?
There are different types of kidney stones and many possible causes of these mineral formations. The most common type of kidney stone is a calcium stone, which is caused by too much calcium oxalate or phosphate in the system. Other possible kidney stones are uric, struvite and cystine stones. Kidney stones can be caused by diet, medications, health conditions, fluid intake and many other factors. Some of the high risk factors include:
- Genetics
- Unbalanced diet (high salt, protein and sugar diets)
- Obesity
- Digestive disorders or surgeries
- Dehydration
- UTIs and certain health conditions
You can have kidney stones and never know you have these deposits in your kidneys or urinary tract. However, if they become large and have difficulty passing through the ureters, they can cause complications.
Symptoms of Kidney Stones
If a kidney stone becomes stuck inside the ureter on its way to the bladder, it can be painful. As the stone moves through the urinary tract, you may experience symptoms that can come in waves. Some symptoms include:
- Sharp pains right below the ribs on the back or side
- Burning pain when urinating
- Radiating pain through the lower abdomen toward the groin
- Fluctuating pain levels
- Pink to brown urine
- Urination changes – low flow or higher frequency
- Urine with bad odor
If a kidney stone causes an infection, you may experience a fever, nausea and vomiting. Any severe symptoms should receive medical attention.
For severe kidney stone pain or complications, medical treatment may be needed. Medications and other non-surgical treatments can be used for smaller kidney stones. Larger stones that are causing complications or damage to the urinary tract may require surgery or other procedures.
If you have symptoms of kidney stones, treatment is available at Beverly Hills Concierge Doctor. Contact our urgent care center for a same day, minimal-wait appointment.