Urinary Calculi

Urinary calculi, or kidney stones, are hard, solid deposits of minerals and salts that form in the urinary tract. They are usually made up of calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, struvite, uric acid, or cystine. Kidney stones can vary in size, from small particles that can pass through the urinary tract undetected, to large stones that can cause blockages and extreme pain. Kidney stones can form when urine becomes too concentrated. This can be caused by dehydration or an overabundance of certain minerals and salts in the urine. As the minerals and salts in the urine become more concentrated, they begin to form crystals. Over time, these crystals can attach to each other and form stones. In some cases, kidney stones can be treated with medications or dietary changes. If the stones are large, however, they may need to be surgically removed. In some cases, lithotripsy, a procedure that uses sound waves to break the stones into smaller pieces that can pass through the urinary tract, may be necessary. In general, kidney stones can be prevented by drinking plenty of water, limiting salt and animal protein intake, and maintaining a balanced diet. Additionally, certain medications, such as calcium-channel blockers and thiazide diuretics, can be used to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones.