Don't Ignore Your Kidneys

What You Should Know about Kidney Stones

Kidneys play a vital role in filtering blood, balancing electrolytes, regulating blood pressure and activating vitamin D. Yet, they often go unnoticed — until something goes wrong.

March is National Kidney Month, making it the perfect time to focus on a common and painfully memorable kidney problem: kidney stones. These hard deposits of minerals and salts can form in the kidneys, causing severe pain, urinary issues and, if left untreated, complications.

Williamson Health’s Richard Westgate, Director of The Turner-Dugas Adult Emergency Department and Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Williamson Medical Center, explains who is at risk, how to prevent kidney stones, and what to do if you experience one.

Symptoms and Risk

“We see a fair amount of patients who present with kidney stones in Williamson Medical Center’s Adult Emergency Department,” Westgate said. “Most people present with pain in the back or side, a burning sensation when urinating, frequent urges to urinate and sometimes even blood in their urine.”

According to the National Kidney Foundation, about one in ten people will develop kidney stones during their lifetime, with risk increasing with age. Men are about twice as likely to develop kidney stones. Diets high in sodium, sugar and protein can also raise your risk.

Tips to Prevent Kidney Stones

While there’s no single cause for kidney stones, several factors can contribute to their development, including:

• Obesity

• Diabetes

• Thyroid disorders and other health conditions

• Diet

• Family history

“Staying well-hydrated is one of the most effective ways to prevent or manage kidney stones,” Westgate said. “Water is best — aim for two to three quarts a day.”

In addition to drinking plenty of water, Westgate recommends avoiding or limiting caffeinated drinks such as soda and coffee, reducing sodium and sugar intake, and moderating animal protein, especially red meat, poultry, eggs and seafood. These foods can increase uric acid and calcium levels in urine, increasing the likelihood of developing kidney stones.

Treatment for Kidney Stones

“If you think you have a kidney stone, increase your fluid intake and consider over-the-counter pain relief, then contact your primary care physician,” Westgate said. “If the pain is severe, seek care in the emergency room.”

Diagnostic testing can help physicians determine the best treatment plan. Smaller stones may pass naturally with increased hydration, while lithotripsy, a procedure using sound waves to break up stones, may be recommended to help speed the process along. Larger stones or those causing blockages might require surgery.

“Thankfully, most people are able to go home to pass kidney stones, even if it’s somewhat uncomfortable,” Westgate said, advising that most patients will need to follow up with a urologist to help prevent recurrence.

Trust Williamson Health

At Williamson Health, we’re committed to keeping your kidneys — and your overall health — in top shape. From primary care visits and nutrition counseling to emergency care for kidney stones and more, our team provides comprehensive services for residents of Williamson County and throughout the region.

This National Kidney Month, take steps to protect your kidney health: stay hydrated, watch your diet and consult our expert providers if you experience symptoms. With early awareness and proper care, kidney stones don’t have to disrupt your life — and Williamson Health is here to support you every step of the way.

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Learn more at williamsonhealth.org.