What is Urolithiasis?

Urolithiasis refers to the formation of stones (calculi) anywhere in the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. These stones can cause pain, block urine flow, and lead to infections or other complications.

What Causes Urolithiasis?

Several factors can contribute to stone formation:

• Dehydration – Not drinking enough water concentrates urine, promoting stone formation.
• Diet – High intake of salt, protein, oxalate-rich foods (like spinach), or calcium supplements.
• Genetics – Family history can increase risk.
• Medical Conditions – Such as gout, hyperparathyroidism, or urinary tract infections.
• Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyle – May increase risk.
• Certain Medications – Some drugs can promote stone formation.

Symptoms of Urolithiasis

Common signs include:

• Sudden, severe pain in the side, back, or lower abdomen (renal colic).
• Pain during urination.
• Blood in urine (hematuria).
• Frequent urge to urinate or difficulty urinating.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
• Fever and chills if infection develops.

How is Urolithiasis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically includes:

• Medical History & Physical Exam – Discussing pain and risk factors.
• Imaging Tests – Ultrasound, X-rays, or CT scans to locate stones.
• Urine Tests – To check for blood, crystals, or infection.
• Blood Tests – To evaluate kidney function and metabolic causes.

How is Urolithiasis Treated?

Treatment depends on stone size, location, and symptoms:

• Pain Relief – Using medications like NSAIDs or opioids.
• Hydration – Drinking plenty of fluids to help pass the stone.
• Medical Expulsive Therapy – Medications to relax ureter muscles.
• Surgical Procedures – Such as shock wave lithotripsy (breaking stones with sound waves), ureteroscopy (removing stones via scope), or percutaneous nephrolithotomy for large stones.
• Treatment of Underlying Causes – Dietary changes, medications, or addressing metabolic disorders to prevent recurrence.

Prognosis of Urolithiasis

• Many small stones pass spontaneously without complications.
• Untreated stones can cause obstruction, infection, or kidney damage.
• Recurrence is common, so preventive measures are important.

Can Urolithiasis Be Prevented?

• Drink plenty of water daily to keep urine diluted.
• Limit salt, animal protein, and oxalate-rich foods.
• Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
• Follow medical advice for underlying conditions.
• Avoid excessive vitamin C or calcium supplements unless prescribed.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek prompt medical care if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with painkillers.
• Blood in urine.
• Difficulty urinating or inability to pass urine.
• Fever, chills, or signs of infection.
• Nausea or vomiting that prevents fluid intake.