Final answer:
Kidney stones are mineral crystals that form in the kidneys, and their treatment depends on the size. Small stones may require hydration to pass, while larger stones might need medical procedures such as lithotripsy or surgery. Catching stones for analysis can help in managing and preventing further issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Kidney Stones and Treatment Options
Kidney stones are solid crystals formed from minerals in the urine within the kidneys. Depending on their size, they can pass spontaneously or may require medical intervention. Stones less than 5mm in size can generally pass through the urinary tract with increased hydration. For stones larger than 2cm, surgical procedures such as open or endoscopic removal are often necessary. Stones ranging from 5mm to 2cm may be treated with Extracorporal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL), a noninvasive procedure using ultrasound pulses to break the stones into smaller fragments, facilitating their passage. Catching passed stones at home for analysis can aid in preventing future occurrences.
Pain caused by kidney stones can be addressed with pain medication until the stone is passed. In some cases, a stent may be placed in the ureter to assist the stone's passage and restore urine flow. However, large stones causing blockage may need to be removed via surgery or ultrasound treatments to prevent kidney damage and facilitate normal urine flow.
Risk factors for kidney stone formation include high concentrations of calcium, oxalate, and phosphorus in the urine. Symptoms may not occur until a stone moves and causes pain or a blockage. Treatment options vary depending on the stone size, with the goal of relieving pain, aiding passage of the stone, or removing the stone to prevent damage to the urinary system.