If you think kidney stones are an issue only for those aged 40 or older, think again. While it’s true that white men in their 30s and 40s are the most likely to get kidney stones, they can affect anyone at any age. It is important to be aware of what they are and how they can be prevented.
Read on to learn more from our AFC Urgent Care Fountain City team!
What Is a Kidney Stone?
A kidney stone is a hard deposit that forms in the kidney, part of the urinary system. The urinary system’s job is to remove extra fluid and waste from your body. The stones form when calcium salts, phosphates, uric acid, and other substances in the urine bind together and turn into crystals. Kidney stones can range in size from smaller than a grain of rice to, rarely, about as large as a golf ball.
If you experience the symptoms listed below, you may be dealing with a kidney stone.
Common Kidney Stone Symptoms
- Severe pain on either side of your lower back
- Urine that smells bad or looks cloudy
- More vague pain or stomach-ache that does not go away
- Blood in the urine
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever and chills
Can Kidney Stones Be Prevented?
Yes, in many cases, kidney stones can be prevented. Proper hydration can be a key element to avoiding them. Some people have a family history of kidney stones which causes them to be at a higher risk of developing them.
The best way to prevent kidney stones is to stay adequately hydrated. Drinking lots of water helps the urinary system filter out waste and lower the risk of developing crystals that turn into kidney stones.
Additional Ways to Prevent Kidney Stones
- Eat more fruit and vegetables. Eating healthy fruits and veggies makes urine less acidic, helping to prevent stones from forming.
- Choose a diet low in salt. A high-sodium diet can trigger kidney stones.
- If you are more susceptible to urinary tract problems eat fewer oxalate-rich foods such as rhubarb, beets, okra, spinach, Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, nuts, tea, chocolate, black pepper, and soy products. Oxalates bind to minerals in the gut preventing the body from absorbing them which can help cause kidney stones.
If you think you are experiencing a kidney stone and need to see a doctor, stop by our Fountain City location today.
