Kidney Stone

A kidney stone is a solid mass made up of tiny crystals. They typically form in the kidney and can travel to other parts of the urinary tract. Kidney stones are one of the most common disorders of the urinary tract. The most common type of kidney stone is a calcium stone, which is made up of calcium and other minerals such as oxalate. These stones form when there is too much calcium or oxalate in the urine. Other types of kidney stones include uric acid stones, struvite stones, and cystine stones. Symptoms of a kidney stone can include severe pain in the lower back or side, pain or burning when urinating, cloudy or bloody urine, and feeling the need to urinate frequently. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. If a stone is large enough, it can block the ureter, which can cause severe pain and other symptoms. Kidney stones can be treated in several ways. Small stones may pass on their own with the help of medications, while larger stones may require surgery to remove. In some cases, the stone may be broken up with ultrasound or other methods. Drinking plenty of fluids can also help to flush out small stones.