You may be surprised to learn that over ½ a million people go to the emergency room each year with kidney stone issues.
Knowing the signs as well as ways to help prevent kidney stones can save you the chance of dealing with some very painful and uncomfortable situations.
Hi, I’m Doctor Williams ER Physician here locally at Beaumont Emergency Hospital. Kidney stones typically show up because of an imbalance in water, salt, and mineral levels in your urine.
Why? Well, normally it is because you just don’t drink enough water. Not replenishing the water in your body can cause salts and other minerals to stick together and form stones.
People who are at a higher risk of developing kidney stones include those who are overweight, suffer from diabetes or high blood pressure.
Dealing with kidney stones is a bit of a wait and see situation. Some people are lucky enough to get by without seeing a medical professional. You merely pass the stones.
However, if you experience any of the following, seeking out emergency medical attention is absolutely the right call:
- Severe pain on abdomen, groin, or genitals, or side
- Blood in urine
- Fever and chills
- Severe nausea or vomiting
When you arrive here, one of the first things we will do is CT Scan of your abdomen to confirm the existence of kidney stones. If stones are found, there are medications that can be prescribed to help with pain and management of any other symptoms. Should the stones be too large, however, surgery may be necessary.
Stay aware, drink plenty of water, and know that I along with my team of ER docs and nurses at Beaumont Emergency Hospital will be here 24/7 to help you out whenever you need us.