As painful as they can be, kidney stones often show no symptoms … that is, until they begin to move around inside your kidney, or pass into your ureter (the tube connecting the kidney and bladder). Kidney stones also have no definite, singular cause, but there are risk factors.
A kidney stone is a hard, crystalline mineral material formed within the kidney or urinary tract. Kidney stones form when there is a decrease in urine volume and/or an excess of stone-forming substances in the urine.
Risk factors for kidney stones
One in every 20 people will develop kidney stones at some point in their life. You could be at an increased risk of developing kidney stones if you possess the following factors:
- Family or personal history of kidney stones
- Dehydration
- High-sodium diet
- Obesity
- Stomach or bowel diseases
Kidney stone pain and when to see your doctor
The pain associated with a kidney stone can change. It may shift to a different location or increase in intensity as the stone moves through your urinary tract. See your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that concern you. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe pain so intense that you cannot sit still or find a comfortable position
- Pain with nausea and vomiting
- Pain accompanied by fever and chills
- Blood in your urine
- Difficulty passing urine
Striving daily to be the best kidney doctors in South Texas
At South Texas Renal Care Group, your kidney health is our only focus. We are here to serve the people of San Antonio and South Texas through personalized and exceptional kidney care, kidney disease management in South Texas. We work each day to be the very best nephrologists, in order to deliver optimal treatment outcomes. Let us show you how our comprehensive, compassionate kidney care can provide you the best possible quality of life.
To learn more, or schedule an appointment, call 210-212-8622 or click here to use our online form.