Kidney Stones

Question 1

What are kidney stones and why are they a problem?

Answer 1

Stone which is made up of calcium crystals.

Because they block the ureter therefore block urine from draining out of the kidney.

Question 2

Who is at risk of kidney stones?

Answer 2

Men

Question 3

What are some risk factors of kidney stones?

Answer 3

• genetics
• dehydration
• excess vitamin D
• certain medications

Question 4

How big does the kidney stone have to be in order to obstruct urine flow?

Answer 4

Usually bigger than 3mm

Question 5

What causes kidney stones?

Answer 5

Not sure BUT

concentrated urine allows minerals to come in close contact with one and other forming a stone

Question 6

What is renal colic?

Answer 6

Excruciating, intermittent pain that radiates from flank to the groin or inner thigh

Question 7

What are some other signs and symptoms of kidney stones?

Answer 7

• urinary urgency
• restlessness
• hematuria ( from irritated ureter)
• sweating
• nausea
• vomiting

Question 8

What is the prognosis of kidney stones?

Answer 8

80% pass on their own. But the recurrence rate is high and 50% of pts will expect another stone in 10 years.
Stone should be captured to find out the type to minimize the risk.