The kidney is one of the most important organs of our body. Let us tell you how you can find out whether you have kidney stones or not.

The kidney is a very important organ of our body, which works to clean the blood, remove excess water and waste materials. But sometimes small solid pieces are formed in it, which are called kidney stones. These can be as small as sand grains in size or as big as pebbles. If not treated on time, they can cause a lot of pain and serious trouble.

Common symptoms of kidney stones

• Severe pain: Sudden and unbearable pain in the back, waist or lower abdomen.
• Painful urination: Burning or stinging sensation while urinating.
• Change in urine colour: Red, pink, or brown urine, which may be due to blood.
• Frequent urination: Feeling the need to urinate frequently, especially at night.
• Foul odor of urine: smelly or cloudy urine.
• Vomiting and nausea: Vomiting or nausea accompanied by pain.
• Fever and chills: If the stone has caused an infection, you may develop a fever.

Expert opinion

Dr. Prashant C. Dheerendra, Consultant Nephrologist at Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, while talking to the media, said that.

"Kidney stones are a common problem, but they can be prevented to a great extent by changing lifestyle and eating habits. It is important to drink water on time, take a proper diet and avoid excess salt and processed food. If the symptoms are severe, such as severe pain, blood in urine or stoppage of urination, then a doctor should be contacted immediately."

When to see a doctor

If the pain is severe, there is blood in the urine, fever, vomiting and urination stops completely, then immediately go to the doctor. Sometimes small stones pass out with urine on their own, but for large stones, medicines or surgery may be required.

Ways to prevent kidney stones

• Drink enough water: It is important to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.
• Reduce salt and junk food: Excess sodium and processed foods increase the risk of kidney stones.
• Take a balanced diet: Take a diet rich in calcium, magnesium and fiber.
• Do not hold urine: Holding urine for a long time can be harmful.
• Regular health check-ups: If you have had kidney stones in the past, keep getting regular check-ups done.

Kidney stone is a problem that can be prevented by proper diet, adequate water and timely checkup. If symptoms appear, do not be careless and consult a specialist immediately. Timely steps can save you from pain and complications.