Complications of Untreated Kidney Stones

Kidney stones have become one of the common diseases affecting 1 out of 10 individuals. These stones are created as a result of the solidification of the materials in your urine. Although most kidney stones resolve on their own or can potentially be treated without any issues, failure to treat on time can be life-threatening. Some of the most common kidney stone risks are chronic pain, UTIs, and, in worst cases, irreversible kidney damage. Therefore, you should never leave your kidney untreated and seek immediate help from a healthcare professional. This is because timely treatment will reduce pain and prevent long-term damage to your kidneys. So, read on to understand the different complications of untreated kidney stones problems.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones (also referred to as renal calculi, urolithiasis, or nephrolithiasis) are hard deposits of minerals and salts that can pass through the urinary tract. They are mostly made up of calcium or uric acid. They range in size from small stones that resemble grains to larger ones that can take up a large portion of the kidney.

Are Kidney Stones Dangerous If Left Untreated?

Kidney stones are solid, rock-like deposits that develop in your kidneys when specific minerals in your urine reach high concentrations. Their size can range from as tiny as a sand grain to as big as a golf ball. They look yellow or brown. Small kidney stones pass through the body in urine. Some people often wait for the stone to exit on its own, based on its severity.

If the pain or discomfort is bearable, doctors tell patients to wait no longer than 4 to 6 weeks to get treatment. Medical procedures may be required if stones do not go away on their own, interfere with kidney function, or cause severe pain.

If kidney stones are not treated, they can block the ureters. This might lead to infections or urine accumulation, which puts more strain on the kidneys. Although the majority of stones are treated before they become a problem, the following are signs that a kidney stone is causing issues:

• Pain in the lower back on both sides
• General or persistent stomach pain.
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blood in the urine
• Fever and chills
• Cloudy or smelly urine

Also Read: How to identify the early signs of kidney stones?

What Are the Risks of Untreated Kidney Stones?

Aside from the severe pain, chronic kidney disease stones can induce a variety of issues that can impair renal function and overall health. Understanding these risks can help you develop a successful approach to prevent and treat kidney stones. The risk of kidney stones is as follows: 

Renal Damage

Kidney stones may cause damage to the renal structures. When they are rubbed against the delicate tissues of the urinary system, they may irritate, inflame, or even cause harm. This may be worsened by frequent bouts of kidney stones, which may eventually result in the impairment of kidney function in the long run. In severe situations, kidney failure or damage to the kidneys may occur, and this can only be cured by dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Kidney stones may lead to a urinary tract infection. The bacteria may adhere to the surface of the stones and create an infection nidus. UTIs can worsen the symptoms and elevate fever, and result in complications, including renal infection (pyelonephritis) if left untreated. Taking antibiotics as soon as possible is necessary to eliminate the risk of spreading the infection and avoid possible renal damage.

Hydronephrosis

Hydronephrosis is a disorder where urine accumulates and stagnates in the kidneys due to a blockage, particularly in the case of a kidney stone. When urine builds up in the kidney, it causes pressure and leads to edema and distention. This may cause pain, renal failure, and irreversible destruction of kidney tissue in extreme cases.

Recurrent Stone Formation

The risk of recurrence of kidney stones is high among individuals who once already had kidney stones. This is because stone indicates a preexisting imbalance of urine compositions, like high levels of uric acid, calcium, or oxalate. These imbalances can continue to persist and lead to the formation of more stones without interference.

Hematuria and Bleeding

As the kidney stones pass through the urinary tract, they may cause harm to adjacent tissues, leading to hematuria or blood in the urine. This is common during stone passage and normally disappears on its own. However, persistent bleeding can signal a serious complication, such as infection or any injuries to the urinary tract. 

Obstruction and Acute Renal Failure

There is also a possibility that your kidney stones become lodged in the urinary tract and prevent proper urine flow. This could result in serious complications, such as sepsis or nephrotoxins. These can result in acute renal failure if waste materials and toxins continue to accumulate in the body.

Sepsis

Sepsis is a fatal disorder that occurs when your body reacts to infection by causing extensive inflammation. The presence of an obstructing kidney stone may cause a urinary tract infection (UTI). When the infection gets severe quickly, it may enter the bloodstream, leading to sepsis. Patients with weakened immunity or preexisting renal complications are at high risk of sepsis.

How to Prevent Kidney Stones?

To reduce risk factors associated with the development of kidney stones, you can make lifestyle changes and observe your eating patterns. The following are the prevention measures that will help you keep your kidneys healthy: 

• Stay Hydrated

One of the most effective and simplest measures to prevent kidney stones is to drink a lot of water. Consume as much water as possible (at least 8-10 glasses a day) so that it helps to dilute the substances that lead to the development of stones.

• Track Your Diet

Limit the consumption of animal protein, excessive salt, and food containing high amounts of oxalate, e.g., spinach and almond nuts. Consider a nutritious diet that is full of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

• Limit Sodium and Sugar

Consuming excessive amounts of sodium can raise the level of calcium and decrease citrate (a stone inhibitor) levels in your urine. This may increase the risk of stone formation. Kidney health can also be maintained by limiting processed foods and avoiding high sugar intake.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight

One of the main risk factors for kidney stones is obesity. Your risk can be decreased by maintaining a healthy weight through consistent exercise and a well-balanced diet.

• Speak with a Medical Professional

Individualised changes in diet and lifestyle may help you prevent kidney stones or lower your risk, and it can be done with the assistance of a healthcare professional. Regular checkups will help you monitor the health of your kidneys and also provide measures to treat any complications.

Get Personalised Treatment for Kidney Stone Removal!

Kidney stones are common and occur when wastes accumulate in the urinary tract and lack fluid to remove them. This waste becomes solid and forms stones. Small stones might tend to pass through the body with minimum pain. However, larger stones might need a medical procedure. When untreated, kidney stones may interfere with the functionality of your urinary tract. 

Are you experiencing symptoms of kidney stones? Do not wait! See a medical practitioner immediately to get rid of any kidney stone risks. Our experts at Apollo Spectra may help you prevent kidney stones at an early stage to record better health results and reduce the likelihood of their recurrence. Visit our clinic today and receive an effective treatment approach!