What harm does kidney stones do to the kidneys?

Kidney stones can cause impaired renal function, urinary tract infections, and may even cause irreversible kidney damage, so early intervention is required. Kidney stones are crystals formed by the deposition of minerals in the urine, which can cause physical and pathological damage to the kidneys. Stones blocking the urinary tract can cause urine stagnation, increased pressure and damage to kidney function. In severe cases, hydronephrosis, inflammation or tissue necrosis may occur. Although small stones have mild symptoms, they may also cause chronic inflammation or a hidden decline in renal function if they are not treated for a long time.

The harm caused by kidney stones varies from person to person. Larger stones can cause severe pain, and urine obstruction can cause bacteria to grow, which may lead to urinary tract infection, manifested as frequent urination, urgency, pain, and even hematuria or high fever. If the infection is not controlled in time, the bacteria will spread through the urinary tract and cause deeper damage to the kidneys. More seriously, if kidney function is damaged for a long time, it may develop into chronic kidney disease or even uremia. Even small stones may recur and cause chronic damage, which requires attention.

The harm caused by kidney stones varies from person to person. Larger stones can cause severe pain, and urine obstruction can cause bacteria to grow, which may lead to urinary tract infection, manifested as frequent urination, urgency, pain, and even hematuria or high fever. If the infection is not controlled in time, the bacteria will spread through the urinary tract and cause deeper damage to the kidneys. More seriously, if kidney function is damaged for a long time, it may develop into chronic kidney disease or even uremia. Even small stones may recur and cause chronic damage, which requires attention.

In order to prevent further harm from kidney stones, comprehensive measures should be taken. Pay attention to drinking more water at ordinary times. The daily water intake should be maintained at more than 2.5 liters to dilute urine and reduce the chance of stone formation. Reducing the intake of high-oxalate, high-sodium and high-protein foods in the diet, and increasing the intake of potassium and magnesium in vegetables and fruits will help metabolic balance. At the same time, regular physical examinations are performed every year, and ultrasound is used to monitor kidney function and the presence of stones. Once kidney stones are found, a specialist should be consulted. Smaller stones can be treated with medication and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, while larger stones may require minimally invasive surgery or percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Long-term damage to the kidneys can be avoided through scientific treatment plans.