What Is Nephrolithiasis?

Hint: it’s just a scientific way of saying that you have kidney stones!
 

Anyone who has ever had to deal with kidney stones knows pain! Unfortunately, about 1 in 11 people in the US will deal with nephrolithiasis during their lifetime. While this solid deposit made from salt and other minerals may pass through the urinary tract on its own, sometimes you’ll need to turn to our Milford, MA, urologist Dr. Jeffrey Steinberg right away for treatment.
 

How do I know that I’m dealing with kidney stones?
 

Some of the warning signs that you might have a kidney stone include,
 

  • Lower abdominal pain that may radiate to the groin
  • Severe pain in the back or sides
  • Pain that comes and goes
  • Burning or pain when urinating
  • Blood in the urine (this requires urgent medical attention)
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Nausea and vomiting

The only way to truly know whether you’re dealing with nephrolithiasis is to have our urologists perform urine and imaging tests to detect stones.
 

What causes kidney stones?
 

Certain risk factors can leave you prone to dealing with kidney stones. Some of these risk factors include,
 

  • Being obese
  • Not drinking enough water
  • A family history of kidney stones
  • A high-protein diet, or a diet high in salt and sugar
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Undergoing digestive surgery
  • Certain medical conditions such as hyperparathyroidism or recurring UTIs
  • Certain medications (e.g. laxative; calcium-based antacids)

How are kidney stones treated?
 

Like we said earlier, small stones may pass without needing to see a doctor. Make sure you are drinking enough water during this time. If you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort, an over-the-counter pain reliever can help.
 

However, larger stones may not be able to pass on their own. To prevent kidney damage or bleeding, you will want to turn to a urologist for treatment. One of the most common ways to treat kidney stones is with shockwave therapy, which breaks up the stones so they are easier to pass. If you are dealing with very large stones, surgery may be necessary.
 

If you are experiencing symptoms of nephrolithiasis here in Milford, MA, you must see a urologist as soon as possible. The team at Urology Specialists of Milford can provide you with the treatment and care you need when kidney stones occur. Call us today at (508) 473-6333.

Urology Specialists of Milford, LLC

Office Hours

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Sunday:

Closed