Kidney stones affect millions of people around the world and produce one of the most intense pains in the human body. The kidney stones They are solid masses that form within the urinary system, composed of calcium crystals, oxalate, uric acid and other substances present in the urine.

According to medical figures, at least 1 in 10 men and 1 in 14 women will have kidney stones at some point.

The doctor Efrain Ruizhead of Urology in Monterrey, explained that kidney stones are the most frequent cause of consultation with the urologist.

Complications depend on the size and location of the deposits. When they remain small, they can go unnoticed, but if they reach a considerable size or block urinary flow, they generate symptoms such as acute pain, fever, and the presence of blood in the urine.

The most characteristic symptom is severe pain in the lower back or side. This discomfort can extend to the abdomen or groin, and is sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. Other signs include cloudy urine, bad odor, visible blood, and difficulty urinating. When the stone obstructs the ureter, so-called renal colic appears, an emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

Doctors also warn that frequent urges to urinate and pain when urinating are warning signs. In some cases, fever and chills indicate a secondary infection, which can lead to serious complications if not treated in time.

The formation of kidney stones It is related to several factors. The main cause is lack of adequate hydration, which produces concentrated urine and promotes the crystallization of minerals. Excessive consumption of salt, animal proteins and sugary drinks such as soft drinks or artificial juices increases the risk. Family history influences the probability of developing kidney stones.

Prolonged use of certain medications, such as calcium antacids, diuretics, laxatives, and vitamin supplements, also contributes to the appearance of these deposits. Stones can vary in composition: calcium oxalate, uric acid, magnesium or ammonium phosphate, among others. According to specialists, calcium oxalate ones are the most common.

The calculations of calcium oxalate They form when there is excess minerals such as oxalate, calcium and phosphate, along with low fluid intake. They are associated with diseases such as hyperparathyroidism and urinary infections. Those of uric acid They appear due to a high concentration of this compound in the urine and are linked to high consumption of beef, organ meats and foods rich in purines. Abuse of alcoholic beverages, especially beer, also increases the risk.

Ruiz highlights that uric acid crystals can lodge in the joints and cause conditions such as gout. In all cases, adequate hydration and dietary control help reduce the incidence of new episodes.

Diagnosis includes analysis of family and personal history, a thorough physical examination, and blood tests to detect chemical alterations. Urinalysis allows the predominant components to be identified, while imaging methods such as ultrasound or computed tomography locate and evaluate the size of the stones.

Treatment depends on the type and size of the stone, as well as the symptoms. The first indication is to increase water intake to promote spontaneous expulsion. In mild cases, doctors prescribe medications such as allopurinol, thiazide diuretics, or tamsulosin to ease the passage of the stone. When there are signs of infection, antibiotics are added. If the stone is too large or causes blockage, surgery may be required.

Among the traditional remedies, the infusion of chancapiedraalso known as stone breaker. According to the Mexican herbalist from UNAM, this plant has diuretic properties and can relax the urinary system, facilitating the expulsion of small stones. In addition, it helps reduce associated pain and can disintegrate recent formations.

Other plants valued for their diuretic effect are goldenrod, dandelion and horsetail. Although these remedies can complement treatment, specialists insist that they do not replace medical care or diagnostic studies.

Experts agree that the best way to prevent kidney stones is to drink enough water throughout the day, maintain a diet low in salt and sugar, and moderate the consumption of animal protein. Regular medical control is essential in people with a family history or risk factors. If you have symptoms such as severe pain, fever or blood in the urine, it is recommended to go to a specialist immediately.