Nephrolithiasis

Nephrolithiasis, also known as kidney stones, is a condition in which small, hard deposits of minerals and salts form in the kidneys. These can vary in size and may cause pain, difficulty in urination, nausea, and fever. In some cases, kidney stones may pass out of the system without treatment, however medical approaches such as medication, surgery, or shockwave therapy are often necessary to remove larger stones. Nephrolithiasis is a common condition, affecting around 10-15% of the general population, with rates even higher for individuals with certain medical conditions. Nephrolithiasis is highly preventable with lifestyle modifications including drinking plenty of fluids, maintaining a healthy diet and body weight, and exercising regularly.