Do you experience frequent problems with kidney stones? Nephrology Associates can assist in treating recurring kidney stones for patients in Fairhope, Alabama.
Anyone who has dealt with kidney stones knows that the condition can be extremely painful as the sharp stones work their way out of your body. Unfortunately, a person who has had kidney stones once has an increased likelihood of developing them again. It's also important to know that recurrent kidney stones could be an indication of poor renal health, which puts you at risk of more serious conditions. Repeated issues with kidney stones may mean you're more likely to develop chronic kidney disease (CKD). With all this in mind, patients who suffer from recurring kidney stones should consult with a nephrologist—a kidney specialist—who can monitor your concerns and provide treatment when needed.
Residents of Fairhope, AL, who have experienced multiple kidney stone occurrences can trust Nephrology Associates' skilled kidney care specialists for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing monitoring of your kidney health.
If you live anywhere on the Baldwin County Eastern Shore, give us a call at our Fairhope office (251-990-3533) to request an appointment!
Recurring Kidney Stone Treatment in Fairhope, Alabama
Why Do Some People Develop Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones form when there is an excess of minerals in a person's bloodstream. Part of the kidney's function is to filter out waste, excess water, and minerals from our blood in order to maintain the proper balance for our wellbeing. However, even though this is part of a healthy kidney's "job" in the body, problems can develop if the kidney can't keep up with the demands placed on it. If there's an overabundance of minerals such as calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and salt, these can gather together and form small, solid crystals within our kidneys. These crystals are known as kidney stones, and they can eventually cause a painful blockage in the urinary tract.
Below are some of the typical symptoms of kidney stones:
- pain (sometimes intense, but also may fluctuate)
- nausea or queasiness
- vomiting
- fever
- discomfort during urination
- difficulty urinating
- blood in the urine
In some cases, kidney stones can pass naturally without the need for medical intervention. Unfortunately, this is not always possible. The pain associated with kidney stones can be intense, leading to the necessity of medical attention for the patient's comfort. It's advisable to inform your doctor once you suspect you have a kidney stone, as they can keep an eye on the situation and aid you in seeking medical care if the situation fails to improve on its own.
Is There Anything We Can Do to Prevent Kidney Stones?
It is possible for most people to reduce their chances of developing kidney stones or experiencing a recurrence by making some lifestyle modifications. By implementing straightforward dietary adjustments and engaging in a higher level of physical activity, our kidney health can generally be improved.
Most of us can reduce our chances of suffering from kidney stones simply by taking the following precautions:
- Adjust diet and exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
- Drink plenty of water daily.
- Limit intake of animal protein (especially red meat).
- Eat healthy fruits and vegetables more often.
- Lower the amount of sodium in your diet.
What Causes Some to Have Recurrent Kidney Stones?
Kidney stones may affect certain individuals more frequently due to genetic or hereditary predisposition. Conditions like cystic fibrosis or primary hyperoxaluria can elevate oxalate levels, prompting kidney stone formation. Increased cystine levels in the urine, resulting from cystinuria, is another factor responsible for kidney stone development. Chronic diarrhea, a common effect of many gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn's disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), and gastric bypass, can also make an individual more susceptible to persistent kidney stone problems. Diseases including diabetes, gout, obesity, hyperparathyroidism, and other such ailments can also increase the likelihood of recurring kidney stone formation.
Evidence implies a correlation between frequent kidney stones and chronic kidney disease (CKD). To protect or extend healthy kidney function, avoiding recurring kidney stones is crucial. It's important to consult with a doctor if you are undergoing any kidney-related problems, such as repeated kidney stones. Even if you feel you can manage the kidney stones on your own, they may be a sign of an underlying problem that will only increase in severity without intervention. A nephrologist—a specialist in kidney health—can assess and track your kidney function, assisting you in maintaining the health of your kidneys and leading a longer, happier life.
Treat Your Recurrent Kidney Stones in Fairhope, AL
If you're dealing with recurring kidney stones, it's time to seek assistance. Nephrology Associates has a dedicated team of kidney care specialists who are committed to serving the renal health needs of the Alabama Gulf Coast community. We know how painful and difficult kidney stones can be, and we will make every effort to support you in finding a brighter future with fewer recurrences.
Patients in Fairhope can easily access advanced kidney care diagnostics and treatments from Nephrology Associates, which has a presence in several locations across Baldwin and Mobile counties, including an office right here in Fairhope. You can call our Fairhope office to schedule an appointment or visit our contact page to find the details of our other locations and reach out via an online message. We strive to make kidney healthcare as convenient as possible for our patients, and with multiple locations, expert attention is available when and where patients need it.