Kidney Stones

Kidney Stones are formed by salts and minerals in the urine that stick together to form small pebbles. Usually, these formations are painless. However, as they leave the kidney and travel through the ureter, they can cause severe pain.  Most stones will be passed through the urine in a few days. From time to time, however, they can become lodged in the ureter and require surgical assistance. There are four major types of kidney stones, named after their primary mineral components.

  • Calcium stones—Calcium stones make up the vast majority of kidney stones and are caused by excess calcium or oxalate in the urine. Diets high in calcium or oxalate and hereditary conditions are often to blame for the development of calcium stones.
  • Struvite stones—These stones are composed primarily of ammonium and magnesium phosphate and form as a response to an infection. These stones can grow very large, very quickly.
  • Uric acid stones—A rarer form of stone, these are composed when acid levels in the urine are higher than normal for longer periods of time. Certain genetic factors predispose individuals to this type of stone, as well as people who are dehydrated, have a high-protein diet and those with gout.
  • Cystine stones—These stones represent only a small percentage of kidney stones. They form in people with a hereditary disorder that causes the kidneys to excrete excessive amounts of certain amino acids (cystinuria).

Risk factors for developing kidney stones include: personal history, dehydration, certain diets, obesity or digestive diseases and surgery. If you have developed kidney stones of any type and are having trouble passing them naturally, there are more options for treatment. Surgical options are tailored to individuals specific stone size, location, and other medical factors.

Treatments include:

  • Lithotripsy
  • Ureteroscopy
  • Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)

The Jackson Clinic Urologists offer services to patients all over West Tennessee and throughout the Mid-South including Paducah, Jonesboro, Memphis and Tupelo. Urology services are offered at the West Forest location.

To request an appointment, call 731.422.0213 or submit your request online.