Kidney stones are among the most common urinary conditions in Egypt, especially during the summer when temperatures rise, sweating increases, and the amount of fluids we drink decreases. Despite the severe pain they cause, most cases of kidney stones can be fully treated without the need for open surgery.
What is a kidney stone?
A kidney stone is a buildup of minerals and salts in the kidney that hardens until it forms a solid body. The stone may stay in the kidney without causing symptoms for a while, or it may move down through the ureter toward the bladder, generating sharp pain.
Causes and risk factors of kidney stones
• Low fluid intake (the most common cause in Egypt)
• Dehydration caused by hot weather and increased sweating in summer
• A diet high in sodium and animal protein
• A family history of kidney stones
• Certain health conditions associated with changes in blood mineral levels
• Anyone who has formed stones before: more prone to recurrence
Symptoms of a kidney stone
• Renal colic: severe, intermittent pain in the back or flank that sometimes extends toward the groin or the genitals — patients describe it as one of the most intense kinds of pain
• Burning or difficulty when urinating
• A change in urine color (pink, red, or dark brown)
• Nausea and vomiting accompanying the pain episodes
• Fever with back pain: a sign of an accompanying infection that requires seeing a doctor immediately
When should you go to the emergency room immediately?
🚨 Go to the emergency room immediately in the case of:
• Severe, persistent pain that does not ease after several hours
• The presence of visible blood in the urine along with severe pain
• Fever accompanying back or flank pain
• The feeling of being completely unable to urinate
In an emergency, call an ambulance immediately.
Treatment options for kidney stones
Treatment of stones depends on their size, location, and whether they cause an obstruction or infection.
Small stones (usually less than 5 mm):
They often pass on their own with drinking large amounts of water and sufficient rest. The doctor monitors the condition with periodic imaging.
Medium and large stones, or those that cause an obstruction:
• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): a non-surgical procedure usually performed as an outpatient session, with the patient returning home the same day
• Ureteroscopy: inserting a thin scope through the urinary tract to extract the stone or break it up with a laser — without any external incision
• Open surgery: rarely resorted to in modern times, and reserved for very exceptional cases
Prevention of kidney stones
Prevention is possible and effective in most cases:
• Drinking at least 2 to 3 liters of water daily (and more in summer or when exercising)
• Reducing salty and processed foods
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular follow-up with a doctor for those who have a prior history of kidney stones
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a kidney stone pass on its own?
Yes — small stones (usually less than 5 mm) often pass spontaneously with drinking plenty of water. However, you should consult a doctor first before waiting, because the size and location of the stone determine whether waiting is safe in your case.
How long does shock wave lithotripsy take?
The ESWL procedure is performed as an outpatient session that usually takes 30–60 minutes. Most patients return home the same day without needing to stay in the hospital. Larger stones may require more than one session.
Can future recurrence of kidney stones be prevented?
Yes, to a large extent. Drinking plenty of water daily and adjusting your diet significantly reduce the likelihood of stones forming again. The doctor sets personalized recommendations for each case after analyzing the type of stone.
Book an appointment with the Urology Department at Town Hospital for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the appropriate treatment in an atmosphere of complete respect and privacy.
🏥 Town Hospital — 15276 | www.townhospitaleg.com
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