In the United States, approximately 1 out of every 11 people are affected by kidney stones at some time in their life. This condition affects both men and women of every ethnicity, although it is more common in those who are obese or have diabetes. There are many people living with kidney stones who are not even aware they have them. Symptoms of this condition, when they occur, typically include severe pain in the sides and back below the rib cage, as well as nausea and vomiting.
When Kidney Stones are Recurring
While some patients might have only one severe episode involving kidney stones in their lifetime, there are others for whom living with these stones is a recurring and unending problem. Conditions such as cystinuria, Crohn’s disease and hyperparathyroidism can result in the frequent development of kidney stones, leaving the person with only a short respite after treatment before the pain returns.
Living with kidney stones can be excruciatingly painful. Many attempt home remedies such as limiting vitamin C intake, drinking more water, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen, and applying heat to the area in pain. While these remedies may provide some temporary relief, those with a chronic kidney stone condition must eventually seek professional medical care.
Important Kidney Stone Preventive Care
With the proper care to prevent a recurrence, life after treatment can be much better than before. Preventive measures can effectively reduce the frequency with which kidney stones develop, but finding this type of effective medical care requires finding an experienced urologist.
Urology is the medical discipline that focuses on the health of the urinary tract, including the kidneys. Urologists use their specialized medical knowledge in dealing with kidney stones to help patients with a chronic condition keep the problem under control. If you live in the St Petersburg area and would like a consultation with a urologist, call St Pete Urology today.