A blockage in the urinary tract can be painful, but it can be prevented and treated

Renal colic is caused by deposits of minerals that build up in the urinary tract. Kidney stones consist of crystallised chemicals that form a tiny stone. If the stone grows too big, it may lodge in the urinary tract and interfere with the flow of urine, causing a very painful blockage. This process is known as colic.

What causes kidney stones to form?

The kidneys continuously filter the blood, which contains numerous mineral salts. These mineral salts are diluted in urine, but in high concentrations they solidify into crystals. These crystals are usually very small and are flushed out easily, but they can aggregate to form a larger stone.

Approximately 70% of these crystals is made up of calcium, phosphate and oxalate. There is also a high percentage of uric acid.

Some situations increase the risk of stone formation:

• Long periods of immobility.
• Excess calcium and vitamin D intake.
• Some drugs, such as lithium.
• A very high protein diet.
• Serious muscle injury.
• Repeated urinary infections.
• Diseases such as gout, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and kidney disease.
• Low water intake.

What are the symptoms of renal colic?

Small stones may be asymptomatic, but if the stone is larger, frequent symptoms are:

• Severe, continuous and sudden pain that starts in the lumbar region which may radiate to the groin and genital region.
• Very frequent urination with very little urine, sometimes with intense pain.
• Nausea, vomiting, sweating and high temperature.

What is the treatment?

Ask your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. Most kidney stones pass spontaneously. The best strategy is to take pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs and wait.

How can I stop it from happening again?

You can prevent more stones from appearing by following these guidelines:

• Drink from 1.5 to 2 litres of water every day.
• Watch your calcium and protein intake. They are an essential part of your diet, but as part of a healthy, balanced diet.
• Avoid too much salt and reduce your intake of processed foods.
• Keep your blood pressure under control.

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