If you are like most people, you probably know someone who has experienced kidney stones in the past. But what are kidney stones, what causes them, and how are they treated? If you or a loved one is suffering from kidney stones in Des Moines, IA, or would like to learn more about kidney health, consider reaching out to Iowa Kidney Physicians.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are small, irregularly-shaped formations that can develop in your kidneys as a result of high levels of salts and minerals in your urine. Sometimes, you may not even realize you have kidney stones if they are very small in size or stay in your kidney. However, when kidney stones travel between the kidney and the bladder through a tube called the ureter, they can be passed through your urine or block the urine flow out of the body, causing pain and discomfort as a result.

What Causes Kidney Stones?

When there is a low volume of urine, the salt, and minerals that naturally occur in urine become more concentrated and may begin to crystalize. Most of the time, this is due to a person not drinking enough water, though there may be other factors at play, too. The salts and mineral substances that typically form what we know as kidney stones in Des Moines, IA, are calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and phosphate.

How Are Kidney Stones Treated?

Kidney stones may present as pain in the lower back or side of your body, as well as pain when urinating, having blood in your urine, or being unable to urinate. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to seek treatment from a medical professional right away. After being diagnosed with kidney stones, your doctor will determine what kind of treatment you need, which may include medications for your discomfort or surgery if you are unable to pass the kidney stones safely on your own.

If you are experiencing kidney stones in Des Moines, IA, call Iowa Kidney Physicians to get help today. Their offices are located in Methodist Plaza (515) 336-6557 and Riverpoint (515) 243-3161.