Kidney Stone Treatment in Tuscaloosa

Kidney stones can cause severe, sudden pain and often require prompt medical care. At West Alabama Urology in Tuscaloosa, our experienced urology team provides comprehensive diagnosis and advanced treatment options for kidney stones - from medication management to minimally invasive procedures like ESWL and laser lithotripsy. Whether this is your first stone or a recurring problem, we’re here to help you get fast relief and prevent future stones.

Kidney Stone Symptoms

Kidney stone symptoms can vary depending on the stone's size and location. Some stones cause intense, sudden pain, while others may produce only mild symptoms or none at all. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Sudden onset of back and/or abdominal pain- coming in waves
• Blood in urine – sometimes
• Feeling like bladder is full but not much urine coming out
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sometimes no symptoms at all if stone is not causing any obstruction

What Causes Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones form when certain substances in the urine become concentrated and crystallize. Several risk factors and underlying conditions can increase your likelihood of developing kidney stones, including:

• More common in Caucasians than African Americans
• Family history of kidney stones – predisposition
• Tends to form more often in males
• Usually between ages of 20-50 years old, but can vary
• Low water intake; Dietary factors; Medical conditions
• Warmer climates

How Frequently Do Kidney Stones Occur?

Kidney stones are a common condition, affecting roughly 5–15% of people at some point in their lives. In the United States alone, more than $2 billion is spent each year on the diagnosis and treatment of kidney stone disease. Unfortunately, about half of all patients who experience one kidney stone are likely to develop another if preventive steps aren’t taken, making ongoing management and lifestyle changes an essential part of long-term care.

What Type of Kidney Stones Are There?

There are several different types of kidney stones, each formed from different substances in the urine. Identifying the type of stone can help guide both treatment and prevention strategies:

• Calcium Oxalate – most common 70-75%
• Calcium Phosphate 5-10%
• Infection Struvite -(MgNH4PO4) 10-15 %
• Uric Acid 5-10%
• Cystine 1%
• Others 1-2%

How Are Kidney Stones Diagnosed?

Kidney stones are typically diagnosed through a combination of urine and imaging studies. A urinalysis is often the first step, allowing your provider to check for signs of blood, infection, or crystals that suggest stone formation. Imaging tests such as a CT scan, ultrasound of the kidneys, or a plain abdominal X-ray may then be performed to confirm the presence, size, and location of the stone. These evaluations help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.

How Will My Kidney Stones be Managed Initially?

Many kidney stones smaller than 5 mm can pass on their own with time and proper medical management. Your urologist may recommend pain control, nausea medication, increased fluids, and medications such as tamsulosin (Flomax) to help relax the ureter and improve stone passage. You will also be prescribed antibiotics if an infection is suspected.

When is my Kidney Stone Blockage an Emergency Situation?

While some kidney stones can be managed safely at home, others require urgent medical attention. You should seek immediate care if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• If you develop a fever or chills
• If the pain cannot be adequately controlled with medication
• If your blood tests indicate deterioration of your kidney function

Kidney Stone Treatment Options

The approach(s) will depend on your medical status and overall health, as well as the location, and size of stone(s).

Your urologist should discuss the advantages and success rate of the following preferred approaches, as well as potential risks and complications.

• Cystoscopy and Insertion of Double J Ureteral Stent
• Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
• Ureteroscopic laser ablation of stone(s)
• Percutaneous kidney surgery
• Open or Laparoscopic Surgery (rare) 

How to Prevent Kidney Stones

In many cases, lifestyle changes and medical management can significantly reduce your risk of developing future kidney stones. Your urologist may recommend several preventive strategies, including:

• Drink plenty of fluids – at least 3 quarts/day
• At least ½ of this fluid should be water
• Limit salt intake
• Your doctor may recommend obtaining 24-hour urine collections for evaluation of the urine chemistry
• Certain dietary restrictions and medications may be recommended based on urine and blood chemistry studies
• Stone composition may also determine if antibiotics or other medications are required

When to Seek Expert Care for Kidney Stones

If you suspect you have a kidney stone or are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to be evaluated by a urologist. Prompt diagnosis and management can help prevent complications, relieve pain, and reduce the chance of future stones.

At our Tuscaloosa office, our experienced urology team provides personalized care - from initial evaluation and imaging to treatment and preventive planning. Whether your stone is small enough to pass on its own or requires advanced intervention, we’ll guide you through every step with expertise and compassion.

Call us today at (205) 759-7878 to schedule an appointment

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