Overview of Kidney Stones
Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are solid masses made of crystals that originate in the kidneys but can develop anywhere along the urinary tract. These stones form when the urine contains more crystal-forming substances—such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid—than the fluid in the urine can dilute. A kidney stone can range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball, and the stones can be smooth or jagged. Overview of Kidney Stones Kidney stones can affect any part of the urinary system, from the kidneys to the bladder. While small stones may pass out of the body in urine without causing significant symptoms, larger stones can block the urinary tract, causing severe pain, infection, and other complications. Types of Kidney Stones Kidney stones come in various types based on their chemical composition: 1. Calcium Stones: These are the most common type and occur when there is a high concentration of calcium oxalate or calcium phosphate in the uri...