• Published on: Dec 25, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Kidney Stones Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, Prevention ?

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Kidney stones are small, hard deposits of minerals that form in the kidneys. 

Kidney stone symptoms may include intense pain in the back, side, or groin; blood in urine; nausea and vomiting; painful urination; and more. 

Kidney stones are usually caused by a high level of calcium or oxalate in the urine. Factors that may increase your risk of kidney stones include drinking less fluids, eating a diet high in protein and salt, taking certain medications, age, and more.There are several ways to prevent kidney stones including drinking plenty of fluids (especially water), reducing your intake of protein and salt, and taking medication if necessary. 

Some common treatments for kidney stones include drinking lots of fluids, taking over-the-counter pain medication, and undergoing a procedure to break the stones up into smaller pieces.   

Kidney stones form when certain chemicals in the urine crystallize. The most common type of kidney stone is made of calcium. Urine contains high levels of calcium and other minerals and these high levels can cause crystals to form in the urine. If these crystals grow large enough, they can become a kidney stone. 

Kidney stones are a common problem, affecting around 10% of men and 6% of women. They usually form when substances in the urine, such as calcium and oxalate, crystallize and solidify. 

Kidney stones can cause pain in the back, side, or groin; blood in the urine; and nausea and vomiting. If a kidney stone becomes lodged in the urinary tract, it can block the flow of urine and cause pain and discomfort.   

The best way to prevent kidney stones is to drink plenty of fluids (especially water) so that urine is dilute and less likely to form crystals.

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys. They can cause pain and other symptoms. Treatment may include passing a stone with special instruments, Medicines, or surgery. Prevention includes drinking fluids, avoiding foods and drinks that increase the risk of stones, and taking certain medications. 

Some people are more likely to get kidney stones than others. Risk factors include not drinking enough fluids, eating too much protein or salt, being obese, having a family history of kidney stones, and having certain medical conditions such as gout or inflammatory bowel disease. 

Kidney stones often do not have any symptoms until they start to move down the urinary tract. Symptoms may include severe pain in the back or side below the ribs 

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form inside the kidneys.   

Symptoms of kidney stones include pain in the side and back, below the ribs and above the waist; pain that moves from one side to the other; nausea and vomiting; blood in urine; cloudy or bloody urine; excessive thirst; persistent need to urinate; fever and chills.   

There are several different types of kidney stones, but the most common type is calcium oxalate. Kidney stone prevention includes drinking plenty of fluids (especially water), eating a healthy diet, reducing sodium intake, avoiding processed foods and excessive amounts of protein, and getting regular exercise. Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that can form in the kidneys. They are made of minerals and salts that are found in the urine. 

There is no one definitive cause of kidney stones, but several things can increase your risk of developing them, including: not drinking enough fluids, eating too much protein or sodium, high blood pressure, being obese or overweight, and having a family history of kidney stones. 

treatment for kidney stones may include pain relief medications, drinking more fluids to help flush the stones out of your system, medications to break up the stones into smaller pieces so they can be passed more easily, and/or surgery to remove the stones. Kidney stones are small, hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys. They can cause pain and problems with urination. 

Most kidney stones pass out of the body on their own within a few days. Treatment may include drinking lots of fluids, taking pain medicine, and using heat packs on the back. Some people need to go to the Hospital to have a kidney stone passed out through a special tube inserted into the urinary tract. 

Prevention includes drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, and eating foods that contain calcium and magnesium. 

Kidney stones are formed when a crystal or small mass of material (minerals) crystallizes from urine. Uric acid is the most common type of kidney stone.   

Kidney stones can cause pain, bloody urine, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment may include drinking fluids to flush the stone out of the urinary tract, pain relief, and surgery. Prevention tips include drinking plenty of fluids (at least eight glasses per day), eating a healthy diet low in salt and animal proteins, and avoiding excessive calcium intake. 

Kidney stones are small, hard deposits that form in the kidneys. They can cause pain and other problems. Kidney stones are treated with medications and sometimes Surgery. Prevention includes drinking fluids, eating a healthy diet, and reducing stress.

Symptoms of kidney stones include: 

  • pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen 
  • nausea or vomiting 
  • blood in urine 
  • frequent urination 
  • urine that smells bad or looks cloudy 

Treatment for kidney stones usually depends on the size of the stone, where it is located, and whether it is causing pain. A small stone may pass on its own, but a larger one may need to be treated with medication or surgery. 

Common medications used to treat kidney stones include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, and alpha blockers, which relax the muscles around the ureter and help the stone pass more quickly. If a person has a large kidney stone that is not passing on its own, or if it is causing pain, surgery may be needed to remove it. 

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Sleep disorders

Sleep Disorder Treatment: Effective Ways to Restore Healthy Sleep

Sleep is a fundamental biological process essential for physical restoration, mental clarity and emotional balance. Despite its importance, sleep disorders are increasingly common across all age groups. Millions of people struggle with poor sleep quality, difficulty falling asleep or frequent nighttime awakenings, often without seeking help.

Effective sleep disorder treatment plays a critical role in restoring healthy sleep patterns and preventing long-term health complications.

 

Understanding Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns, affecting the ability to fall asleep, stay asleep or achieve restorative sleep. They can be short-term or chronic and may occur due to lifestyle factors, medical conditions or psychological stress.

According to global and Indian health data, sleep disorders are underdiagnosed despite their strong association with chronic diseases.

 

Common Types of Sleep Disorders

Insomnia

Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder.

It involves:

  • difficulty falling asleep
     

  • frequent awakenings
     

  • early morning waking
     

  • non-restorative sleep
     

Chronic insomnia significantly affects daily functioning.

 

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep.

Symptoms include:

  • loud snoring
     

  • daytime sleepiness
     

  • morning headaches
     

Untreated sleep apnea increases cardiovascular risk.

 

Restless Leg Syndrome

This condition causes uncomfortable leg sensations and an urge to move the legs, especially at night.

It disrupts sleep continuity and quality.

 

Circadian Rhythm Disorders

These occur when the body’s internal clock is misaligned with daily schedules, common in shift workers and frequent travellers.

 

Why Sleep Disorders Should Not Be Ignored

Chronic sleep problems increase the risk of:

  • heart disease
     

  • hypertension
     

  • diabetes
     

  • obesity
     

  • depression and anxiety
     

  • reduced immunity
     

Poor sleep affects both physical and mental health.

 

Causes of Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders often result from multiple factors, including:

  • chronic stress
     

  • irregular sleep schedules
     

  • excessive screen exposure
     

  • caffeine or alcohol use
     

  • medical conditions
     

  • mental health disorders
     

Identifying root causes is essential for effective treatment.

 

Diagnosis of Sleep Disorders

Diagnosis involves:

  • detailed sleep history
     

  • lifestyle assessment
     

  • medical evaluation
     

  • sleep studies in selected cases
     

Accurate diagnosis guides appropriate treatment.

 

Sleep Disorder Treatment Approaches

Behavioural and Cognitive Therapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a highly effective non-drug treatment.

It focuses on:

  • correcting sleep-related thoughts
     

  • improving sleep routines
     

  • reducing anxiety around sleep
     

CBT-I is recommended as first-line treatment for chronic insomnia.

 

Lifestyle and Sleep Hygiene Measures

Good sleep hygiene includes:

  • maintaining regular sleep timings
     

  • limiting screen exposure before bedtime
     

  • creating a comfortable sleep environment
     

  • avoiding heavy meals late at night
     

These measures support natural sleep regulation.

 

Medical Management

Medications may be used:

  • short-term for severe symptoms
     

  • under medical supervision
     

Medication is often combined with behavioural therapy rather than used alone.

 

Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Management may include:

  • weight management
     

  • positional therapy
     

  • continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices
     

  • treating underlying conditions
     

Early treatment reduces cardiovascular risk.

 

Role of Mental Health in Sleep Disorders

Sleep and mental health are closely connected.

Conditions such as anxiety and depression:

  • disrupt sleep architecture
     

  • worsen insomnia
     

  • require integrated treatment
     

Addressing mental health improves sleep outcomes.

 

Importance of Consistency in Treatment

Sleep disorder treatment requires:

  • patience
     

  • consistency
     

  • follow-up
     

Improvement may take weeks, but sustained effort yields lasting results.

 

Preventing Sleep Disorders

Preventive strategies include:

  • stress management
     

  • physical activity
     

  • balanced nutrition
     

  • limiting stimulants
     

  • maintaining work-life balance
     

Prevention is more effective than treatment alone.

 

Impact of Technology on Sleep

Excessive screen use affects melatonin production and delays sleep onset.

Reducing nighttime screen exposure significantly improves sleep quality.

 

When to Seek Professional Help

Consult a healthcare provider if:

  • sleep problems persist beyond two weeks
     

  • daytime functioning is affected
     

  • snoring and breathing pauses are noticed
     

  • sleepiness interferes with safety
     

Early treatment prevents complications.

 

Long-Term Benefits of Treating Sleep Disorders

Effective sleep disorder treatment leads to:

  • improved energy and concentration
     

  • better mood and emotional stability
     

  • reduced chronic disease risk
     

  • enhanced quality of life
     

Healthy sleep supports overall wellbeing.

 

Conclusion

Sleep disorder treatment is essential for restoring physical health, mental clarity and emotional balance. While sleep problems are common, they are not normal or harmless. Insomnia, sleep apnea and other sleep disorders can be effectively managed through behavioural therapy, lifestyle changes and medical care when needed. Early recognition and consistent treatment not only improve sleep quality but also protect long-term health. Prioritising sleep is a powerful step toward a healthier and more productive life.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Sleep Health and Lifestyle Studies
  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Sleep and Mental Health Guidelines
  • National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) – Sleep Disorders Research
  • Lancet Psychiatry – Sleep Disorders and Chronic Disease Risk
  • NITI Aayog – Mental Health and Preventive Healthcare Reports
  • Statista – Global Sleep Disorder Prevalence and Trends

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