Kidney Stones

A kidney stone begins as a tiny speck of materials in the kidney. If the speck is not passed with the urine, it may become larger as more materials clings to it. Most kidney stones are composed of a form of calcium and are passed without difficulty. Others, however, may cause severe pain in the side, lower back or testicles as they pass through the kidney to the bladder. Once in the bladder, most stones are passed without further discomfort. Occasionally, kidney stones cause traces of blood in the urine. If a kidney stone does not pass on its own, or is blocking the flow of urine, treatment may be required. Laser surgery to remove the stone or lithotripsy can break up the stone into smaller pieces are two effective forms of treatment. Several measures can be taken to reduce the formalin of kidney stones. A physician would likely order a complete metabolic profile to determine the cause of stone formation.

Blood in the Urine

Hematuria, or blood in the urine, can be caused by over 100 different reasons. The leading cause is urinary tract infections. Some other common causes are urinary tract cancers, prostate problems, kidney stones, kidney disease, and blood disorders. Sometimes natural or artificial colorings can pass in the urine making it reddish or pink. Healthy urine should be straw color, not cloudy or red. Any blood in the urine should be further checked to find the cause. Common symptoms of urinary tract infections are blood in the urine, burning, or frequent urination. It you have blood in the urine and a fever or lower back or abdominal pain, you should see your doctor immediately.

Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is the lack of control over urination. While it is very common in older women, men can have it as well. About one in ten older adults age 65 or older have some form of incontinence. It ranges from mild to severe. See your doctor for a complete medical exam at the first sign of incontinence. It may be a simple urinary tract infection which can be cured or controlled. Women may have weakened pelvic muscles during pregnancy which can lead to stress incontinence. This means they will urinate when lifting, coughing, sneezing, or laughing. Specific medication and exercise is usually prescribed to correct the problem. In a limited number of cases, surgery may be needed. If the condition cannot be cured, incontinence can be managed by making frequent trips to the bathroom or by disposable undergarments which will absorb urine and limit odor.

Kidney and Urinary Tract Infections

Kidney and urinary tract infections are very common, especially in women and during pregnancy. Nearly all infections of the urinary tract are due to bacteria entering the urethra from the outside and traveling to the bladder or kidneys. A burning or stinging sensation, or pain when urinating, bloody or cloudy urine, or the urgent need to urinate frequently though only a small amount is passed, are all symptoms of kidney and urinary tract infections. Diagnosis is made by examination of a urine sample and treatment includes antibiotics and plenty of fluids. Any symptoms of infection should be investigated by a physician as soon as possible. Urinary tract infections tend to reoccur in some individuals and if left untreated, could cause permanent kidney damage. For more information, please consult a physician.