Urolithiasis (medical name – urolithiasis) is a condition based on a metabolic disorder, in which stones form in the urinary tract (from the kidneys to the urethra).
Causes
It is believed that urolithiasis is associated with hereditary predisposition. Stones can be formed under the influence of a combination of various external and internal factors. These include:
- sedentary lifestyle,
- consumption of water with high levels of calcium salts,
- consumption of food rich in protein and salt, which increases urine acidity,
- deficiency of vitamins (A and B),
- harmful working conditions,
- certain medications (ascorbic acid),
- gastrointestinal diseases (liver, bile ducts),
- certain infectious diseases,
- enzyme imbalance,
- serious injuries leading to prolonged immobility of the patient.
Symptoms of Urolithiasis
The first sign of urolithiasis is pain of varying intensity, either constant or periodic, in the lumbar region. Renal colic is a symptom indicating urolithiasis without examination. Colic occurs when a stone obstructs the flow of urine. The patient suddenly experiences sharp pain that does not subside in any body position, sometimes lasting for several days. An attack of renal colic is accompanied by fever, chills, and leukocytosis. Other symptoms include nausea and vomiting, abdominal muscle tension, bloating, and spontaneous passage of the stone. Acute renal failure is rare.
Diagnosis of Urolithiasis in Israel
To diagnose urolithiasis in Israel, after examination, the urologist prescribes the following types of tests:
- Ultrasound of the urinary tract and kidneys;
- excretory urography, CT;
- blood and urine tests;
- bacteriological urine culture;
- analysis of the stone, its structure and density;
- urethropieloscopy, retrograde urethropielography, pneumopielography.
Treatment of Urolithiasis in Israel
In Israel, both conservative treatment and surgical methods are used for urolithiasis. Most often, stone resection is performed. Medical treatment involves taking medications that help dissolve uric acid stones.
Stone extraction is performed in several ways:
- removal along with the kidney;
- removal via pyelolithotomy, nephrolithotomy, ureterolithotomy;
- endoscopic percutaneous lithoextraction;
- extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy.
All types of urolithiasis treatment are conducted in conjunction with diet and physiotherapy.
Prevention
To prevent urolithiasis, it is recommended to adhere to a proper diet and hydration regimen, and to pay close attention to the condition of kidney and urinary tract function.