Kidney stones are a common problem in America. Nearly 12% of Americans will get one at some point in their lives, and family history plays a large role in a person’s increased risk.

Although people between the ages of 30 and 60 are most likely to get kidney stones, they can happen to anyone at any age. Read on to learn more from our AFC Urgent Care Clemson team!

What Is a Kidney Stone?

A kidney stone is a hard deposit that forms in the urinary system. Stones form when certain substances in the urine, like calcium and uric acid, turn into crystals, which happens when there is too much urine and too little water in urinary system.

If you experience the symptoms we’ve listed below, you are likely dealing with a kidney stone.

Common Kidney Stone Symptoms

• Severe pain on either side of your lower back
• More vague pain or stomach ache that doesn’t go away
• Blood in the urine
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Urine that smells bad or looks cloudy

Can Kidney Stones Be Treated?

Yes, they definitely can. Like we said earlier, anyone can get a kidney stone, no matter his or her age. And if a person gets a kidney stone, it’s typically quite small, which can be passed on its own. However, if a kidney stone is large, medical attention is usually required.

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is one of the most used medical techniques for removing large kidney stones. Sound waves are used by ESWL to break the stones into little bits that can be passed through urine. The treatment options that we’ve listed below are the most common ways to eliminate kidney stones.

Common Kidney Stone Treatments

• Drinking water. Most kidney stones are small and will eventually pass through your urinary system, so drinking lots of water is the best way to flush them out sooner than later. Drinking fluids will dilute urine and give you the best chance at passing a kidney stone in a timely manner.
• Pain relievers. Passing kidney stones doesn’t feel good. To relieve pain, OTC pain relievers and anti-inflammatories can be helpful.
• Medical therapy. In some cases, your doctor may give you a medication called an alpha blocker to help pass your kidney stone. This type of medication relaxes the muscles in your ureter, which will help you pass the kidney stone more quickly and with less pain.

Think you have a kidney stone and aren’t sure what to do? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our AFC Urgent Care Clemson team!