Urolithiasis, often known as kidney stones, is a solid mass or crystal that can be found anywhere along the urinary tract. These crystals can be as small as grains of sand or as large as golf balls. When urine gets concentrated, minerals crystallize and lodge within the urinary tract, resulting in the formation of these crystals. Small stones can flow through the urinary tract, however large stones might obstruct the urinary route and cause symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Urolithiasis

• Sharp pain in the side and lower back region (below the ribs)
• Radiating pain to lower abdomen
• Urinary tract infection
• Blood in the urine
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Brown, pink, or red coloured urine

Causes of Urolithiasis

• Not drinking enough water
• High protein intake
• High oxalate intake (natural compounds found in beans, spinach, coffee)
• High salt intake

Understanding Urolithiasis in Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, kidney stones are primarily caused by an imbalance in the body’s doshas, especially Vata dosha. Factors such as improper diet, inadequate hydration, and sedentary lifestyle contribute to this imbalance. Excessive intake of dry foods that aggravate Vata can lead to stone formation in the kidneys.

Treatment and Management
Treatment for kidney stones may include pain relief with medication, increased fluid intake to help pass the stone, and dietary changes to prevent further stones. For larger stones, procedures such as ureteroscopy, or surgery may be necessary.
Palliative Care provided by SGP’s PSA can be an integral part of managing kidney stones, particularly for individuals having persistent symptoms. Palliative Care provided by SGP’s PSA aims to enhance quality of life by addressing pain management, symptom control, emotional support, and psycho-social well-being.

FAQs about Urolithiasis

1. How are kidney stones diagnosed?

   Kidney stones are typically diagnosed through imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds.

2. What preventive measures can one take to avoid kidney stones?

   Kidney stones can be prevented by:

   • Staying hydrated
   • Limiting salt intake
   • Maintaining healthy weight
3. Can small kidney stones pass on their own?

   Small kidney stones (usually less than 4mm) can sometimes pass naturally through the urinary tract, but larger stones often require medical intervention for removal.

4. How long does it typically take for a kidney stone to pass, once it starts causing symptoms? 

   The time it takes for a kidney stone to pass can vary, but it may take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the stone’s size and location.

5. Can kidney stones recur after successful treatment or passage?

    Yes, individuals who have had kidney stones are at an increased risk of developing them again. The lifetime recurrence rate among patients who have passed a single kidney stone is between 60% to 80%.