Kidney Stones (Urolithiasis): Causes, Treatment and Prevention
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones, or urolithiasis, are solid deposits formed by salts and minerals in the urine. They can appear in the kidney, ureter or bladder and are a common cause of intense pain in the lower back or abdomen.
Although many people experience only one episode, the tendency to form stones may recur if underlying causes and habits are not addressed.
Why do kidney stones form?
Stones develop when the urine contains high concentrations of calcium, oxalate or uric acid, and not enough water to dilute them. These crystals combine and form calculi.
Risk factors include:
Drinking too little water or having concentrated urine.
A diet high in salt, animal protein, or oxalate-rich foods (spinach, nuts, chocolate…).
Digestive or metabolic diseases.
Family history of kidney stones.
Certain medications or recurrent urinary infections.
Symptoms
The most typical symptom is renal colic: sudden, severe pain on one side of the back that may radiate toward the groin.
Other symptoms may include:
Blood in the urine (pink or reddish color).
Nausea or vomiting.
Frequent or urgent urination.
Fever or chills if infection is present.
Diagnosis and treatment
At Arzoz Urologia (Girona, Spain), diagnosis includes ultrasound plus XR, or CT scan combined with urine and blood analysis to determine the stone type and underlying cause.
Treatment options:
Small stones: may pass naturally with hydration and medication.
- Large or complex stones
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): breaks the stone into small pieces.
Ureteroscopy: minimally invasive endoscopic removal.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: for large stones inside the kidney.
Myths and misconceptions
– “If I have stones, I must avoid calcium.”
False. Dietary calcium can be protective, as it binds to oxalates in the intestine and reduces absorption.
–“Just drinking more water is enough.”
Hydration is essential, but other lifestyle and dietary adjustments are also necessary.
–“Lemon juice dissolves kidney stones.”
It may help prevent small stones but does not dissolve existing ones.
–“All kidney stones are the same.”
There are different types (calcium, uric acid, struvite, cystine…), and each requires a tailored approach.
How to prevent kidney stones
Drink at least 2 liters of water per day, spaced throughout the day.
Reduce salt and animal protein intake.
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
Avoid excessive oxalate-rich foods.
Have regular urological check-ups, especially if you have a history of stones.
Where to treat a stone in Girona?
At Dr. Montserrat Arzoz’s clinic, we provide a comprehensive study of kidney stones, identifying the stone type and individual risk factors to guide personalized treatment and prevention.
Our goal is an effective, preventive and patient-centered approach to reduce recurrence and improve long-term wellbeing.
