Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are small pieces of crystallized material made up of mostly calcium, but may contain uric or amino acids. They usually pass out of the body without any problems. When they get stuck in the ureter – the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder – they can cause pain and other debilitating symptoms.

Kidney stones, also called renal lithiasis, can lead to infection and kidney damage. Goshen Hospital Emergency Department combines skilled care and advanced tools to heal kidney stones. Visit our emergency room for relief from kidney pain.

Kidney stone symptoms and causes

A severe stabbing pain in the lower back is the main symptom of kidney stones. The pain may radiate to the abdomen or groin. In addition to pain, you may experience:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Blood in the urine
• Difficulty urinating

Dehydration, urinary tract infections and high blood pressure can increase the risk for developing kidney stones. Other risk factors include:

• Gout
• Obesity
• High-protein diet
• Prolonged inactivity such as being bedridden
• Personal or family history of kidney stones
• Prolonged exposure to a hot climate or high altitudes
• Male gender

Treating kidney stones at Goshen Hospital Emergency Department

Sometimes drinking fluids can dilute the urine and help flush out the stones. For advanced treatment of kidney stones, we use different treatment methods, including surgery, a catheter procedure or shock wave therapy. You don’t have to live with the symptoms of kidney stones. Come to our ER to get the healing you need.