The kidneys are responsible for filtering our blood and removing wastes. These bean-shaped organs are located in the upper abdominal area, on either side of our spine, against the back muscles. Each kidney measures about four to five inches long. Our blood passes through these organs, where wastes are removed, then go back to circulate into our body. The wastes that are filtered out become urine, which goes through the ureter and into the bladder.
When the urine becomes concentrated, minerals found in it may crystallize and build up in the kidney. These hard deposits are called kidney stones, or nephrolithiasis. Sometimes, they become large enough to block the flow of urine. This condition can be very painful. Some kidney stones are small enough to pass on their own, but if they become too large, treatment will be needed to get them out. If left untreated, these stones can cause damage to the kidney or ureter, and may even cause the kidney to stop working.
Kidney stones are a common ailment that affects around 13 percent of men and seven percent of women. Those who have already gotten kidney stones before are at an even higher risk of getting them again.
Most of the time, you wouldn’t know you have kidney stones until you feel pain or other associated symptoms. Since this is a common condition, it is important to be able to recognize the signs that you might have it. Here are some symptoms you may experience if you have kidney stones.
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