Save yourself the pain - Staying hydrated and eating wisely critical to stopping kidney stones

If you have ever had a kidney stone, you will not forget it. Many men describe it as one of the worst pains they have ever felt.

Kidney stones are becoming more common in Jamaica, especially among men. The good news is that they can often be treated and in many cases, prevented.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard, stone-like crystals that form in the kidneys. They develop when substances in the urine such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, build up and stick together.

Some stones stay in the kidney without causing problems. Others move into the ureter (the tube that carries urine to the bladder from the kidney), and this is when the pain usually starts.

Why Do They Hurt So Much?

The pain from kidney stones is caused when the stone blocks the flow of urine.

As the body tries to push the stone along, the ureter squeezes tightly. This causes severe pain, often felt in the side of the back, which may move to the lower abdomen, groin, or testicles.

The pain can come in waves and may be so intense that a man cannot sit still.

Other symptoms may include nausea and vomiting, blood in the urine, burning when passing urine, and frequent urge to urinate.

What Causes Kidney Stones?

One of the biggest factors is not drinking enough water. In a hot country like Jamaica, dehydration increases the risk.

Diet also plays a role. High intake of sugary drinks, salty foods, processed foods, and excess animal protein can increase risk.

Certain medical conditions and family history can also contribute.

Treatment: What Can Be Done?

There are basically two ways to get rid of stones: pass it out of the body naturally or remove it via various techniques.

Small stones may pass on their own by drinking fluids with or without pain medication.

Larger stones may require treatment such as medications (to assist passage) or surgical procedures such as shock-wave therapy, endoscopic (small cut or no cut) procedures, or laser treatment.

Prevention Is Key

The best way to deal with kidney stones is to prevent them from forming.

Drink more water, reduce sugary drinks, cut down on salt, eat a balanced diet, and maintain a healthy weight.

For men who have had stones before, follow-up is important.

If you develop sudden, severe pain in your back or side, especially with vomiting or blood in the urine, seek medical attention.

Kidneys are vital organs. Protecting them requires staying hydrated, eating wisely, and acting early.

In the next article, we will discuss urinary infections in men.

Because men's health matters.