Kidney Stones
What is a Kidney Stone?
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can range from the size of a grain of sand to larger than a marble. Small stones often pass on their own; larger ones may need treatment.
Kidney Stone Treatment
Treatment depends on the size, location, and composition of the stone. Options include observation with pain control, shock wave lithotripsy (sound waves to break up the stone), or ureteroscopy (camera and laser to remove the stone).
Kidney Stone Prevention
Most people who form one kidney stone are likely to form another. Prevention is based on understanding what your stones are made of, and includes hydration, dietary changes, and sometimes medication.
Kidney Stone Prevention Diet
Diet plays a major role in stone prevention. The handout below covers fluid intake, sodium, calcium, oxalate, and protein recommendations.