Kidney stones can cause painful symptoms and complications with your urinary functions. If you experience symptoms of kidney stones, Tricounty Urology in Uniontown and Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, offers safe and effective treatments that can be customized to meet the needs of each patient. Led by a team of urology experts, including Sunil Rayan, MD, and Mukul Patil, MD, the practice specializes in comprehensive, patient-centered care. To receive prompt treatment for your kidney stones, call the office nearest you or request an appointment online today.
Kidney Stones Q & A
What are kidney stones?
Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form in the kidneys. Kidney stones develop when your urine becomes concentrated, allowing crystal-forming substances like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid to stick together and form stones.
Although kidney stones don’t typically cause permanent damage, the stones can be painful as they pass through the urinary tract.
What are the symptoms of kidney stones?
Symptoms of kidney stones include:
You’re likely to experience painful symptoms as the kidney stones move through the urinary tract. The pain may increase or move to other areas depending on the location of the kidney stone.
If you experience symptoms, Tricounty Urology provides accurate diagnosis and prompt, effective treatment for kidney stones.
How are kidney stones diagnosed?
The first step in treating your kidney stones is a diagnosis. The symptoms of kidney stones are sometimes mistaken for other urological conditions, like urinary tract infections. There are several different tests used to diagnose kidney stones. Depending on your needs, your doctor may perform:
These tests can help your provider determine the size and location of your kidney stones and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
How are kidney stones treated?
Once you’re diagnosed, treatment depends on the size of your stones and the severity of your symptoms. Tricounty Urology offers both invasive and noninvasive treatments for kidney stones.
If your condition is mild, conservative treatment usually involves pain relievers and increased fluids to flush out your urinary system. In some cases, medications are used to help you pass your kidney stones.
If your stones are large or cause serious complications with your urinary tract, there are several procedures used to break up and remove troublesome kidney stones. Treatment may involve soundwave or shockwave therapy, ureteroscopy, or surgical removal.
How do I prevent kidney stones from recurring?
Once your kidney stones are treated, the goal is to prevent them from recurring. After treatment, your doctor continues to monitor your urinary tract. Healthy lifestyle changes like making sure to drink enough water and limiting salt in your diet can decrease your risk of developing kidney stones in the future.
To find the right treatment for your kidney stones, request an appointment at Tricounty Urology by phone or online today.