Urologist told how to recognize urolithiasis and prevent the formation of stones

Uolithiasis is a systemic disease that can be asymptomatic for years, and then manifest itself in acute pain. Why are stones formed, what symptoms should alert and how to avoid relapses? Urologist clinic Anastasia Arkhipova explained the causes of urolithiasis and listed methods of its diagnosis and prevention, writes sb.by.

What is urolithiasis

According to the specialist, urolithiasis is a systemic disease that occurs due to changes in the physicochemical properties of urine. It is manifested by the formation of stones in the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra.

Causes: external and internal

- External reasons include the region of residence, the nature of food and drinking water, production factors, living conditions, as well as inactivity, explains Anastasia Arkhipova. Internal causes are taking certain medications (calcium preparations, vitamin D, hormonal and antibacterial agents), abnormalities in the development of the urinary system, chronic cystitis, pyelonephritis, and in men - prostate adenoma with delayed urination.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Stones less than a centimeter may not disturb. That is why regular medical examination with kidney ultrasound and general urine analysis is so important.

- If the stone is in the pelvis or ureter, renal colic can occur - severe pain, accompanied by nausea and sometimes vomiting. This requires emergency hospitalization, the doctor warns.

At the reception, a general urine test, a blood test for creatinine and urea, an ultrasound of the kidneys are usually prescribed. In some cases, an X-ray or computed tomography is required.

Treatment

Treatment tactics depend on the size and location of the stone.

- If the stone is in the kidney cup and its size is less than a centimeter, as a rule, therapy is prescribed for dissolving the stones and dynamic observation, says Anastasia Arkhipova. If the stone is more than a centimeter or takes several cups, surgical treatment is indicated. Also, surgery may be required for stones in the pelvis and pyeloureteral segment.

The composition of stones is different: urate, phosphates, protein. It depends on the choice of drugs for dissolution.

Prevention

- If the diagnosis is already made, an ultrasound of the kidneys should be done every six months, the doctor insists. It is necessary to treat urinary tract infections in a timely manner - cystitis and pyelonephritis. Men older than 40 years should exclude prostate diseases.

It is also recommended to drink up to 2 liters of pure water per day (not mineral, not carbonated, not juices), limit salty and spicy foods and lead an active lifestyle.

- I hope this information was useful, summarizes Anastasia Arkhipova.