According to Dr. Pham Thanh Truc, from the Department of Urology at Tam Anh General Hospital in TP HCM, urinary stones are a common ailment in Vietnam due to its location within the "stone belt". Stones form from the crystallization of minerals in urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid stones. These stones can cause a variety of symptoms.

Renal colic, also known as "kidney stone attack," is a typical symptom caused by stones obstructing the urinary tract. The pain often appears suddenly and intensely in the lower back, radiating down towards the genitals.

A persistent dull ache can be felt in the flanks, back, or abdomen, depending on the location of the stone.

Urinary disorders are also common. These can include painful urination, a frequent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, the feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder, frequent urination of small amounts, blood in the urine, cloudy urine due to infection, or foul-smelling urine.

Other symptoms of urinary stones include nausea and vomiting, and a high fever if infection is present. These can cause significant discomfort and fatigue.

Dr. Truc explains that the formation of stones is often due to habits such as insufficient water intake, a diet high in salt and sugar, consuming foods rich in oxalate and protein, especially animal protein. Medical conditions, certain medications, a sedentary lifestyle, holding urine, and genetics can also increase the risk of stone formation.

Dr. Truc (second from the left) performs open surgery to remove staghorn stones from a patient. Photo: Hospital provided

Dr. Truc (second from the left) performs open surgery to remove staghorn stones from a patient. Photo: Hospital provided

Diagnosis involves a physical examination and imaging techniques. Ultrasound can detect stones in the kidneys and ureters, X-rays can identify calcium oxalate stones, and CT scans can locate urinary stones of any size and position, while also assessing the degree of urinary tract obstruction. Urine and blood tests may also be ordered to detect abnormalities related to urinary stones.

Small stones are often passed from the body without causing pain. However, larger stones can become lodged, leading to dangerous complications if not detected and treated promptly. These complications can include urinary tract infections, urinary tract obstruction, and acute or chronic kidney failure. Some large kidney stones may not cause any symptoms or only mild back pain, so patients are often unaware of their presence. Therefore, regular ultrasounds are recommended for early detection of kidney stones.

Dr. Truc recommends preventive measures such as drinking enough water daily to promote kidney function and prevent stone formation. Limiting foods rich in oxalate and animal protein, and avoiding a high-salt diet are also advised. Regular health check-ups every 6-12 months are essential, especially for those with a family history of urinary stones or related conditions. Anyone experiencing the symptoms mentioned above should consult a urologist.

Ha Thanh