Kidney stones are a common but painful condition that affects millions worldwide, including a significant number of people in Kenya. If you’ve ever had a kidney stone or are currently dealing with one, you’re not alone. At Advanced Urology Clinic in Nairobi, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney stones, offering cutting-edge solutions to help you get back to your normal life as quickly as possible.
In this blog, we’ll explore 10 surprising facts about kidney stones treatment, offering insight into this condition and the various treatment options available in Kenya.
- 1. Kidney Stones Are More Common Than You Think
- 2. There Are Multiple Types of Kidney Stones
- 3. Kidney Stones Can Be Treated Non-Surgically
- 4. Dehydration Is the Leading Cause of Kidney Stones
- 5. ESWL Is a Highly Effective Non-Invasive Treatment
- 6. You Can Reduce the Risk of Recurrence with Diet
- 7. Kidney Stone Treatment Is Affordable in Kenya
- 8. Early Detection Can Save You from Surgery
- 9. Urologists Are Key to Effective Kidney Stone Treatment
- 10. ESWL is Available Right Here in Nairobi
- FAQs About Kidney Stones Treatment
1. Kidney Stones Are More Common Than You Think
Kidney stones affect 1 in 10 people at some point in their lives. While many believe that kidney stones are a rare occurrence, the truth is that they are one of the most common urological disorders. The prevalence of kidney stones in Kenya has been rising due to dietary changes and lifestyle factors.
If you live in Nairobi or elsewhere in Kenya, you may be at risk of developing kidney stones due to our hot climate, which can lead to dehydration—a leading cause of kidney stones. Staying hydrated is crucial to avoiding this painful condition.
2. There Are Multiple Types of Kidney Stones
Not all kidney stones are created equal. In fact, there are four main types of kidney stones, each caused by different factors:
- Calcium stones – These are the most common and are often caused by high levels of calcium in the urine.
- Uric acid stones – These form when your urine is too acidic and are more common in people who consume a lot of red meat and shellfish.
- Struvite stones – These are typically caused by urinary tract infections.
- Cystine stones – These are the rarest and are usually due to a genetic disorder.
Understanding the type you have can help your urologist create a tailored kidney stones treatment plan.
3. Kidney Stones Can Be Treated Non-Surgically
Contrary to popular belief, not all kidney stones require surgery. In fact, many stones can be passed naturally with the help of medications that relax the ureter and increase urine flow. At Advanced Urology Clinic, we offer non-surgical options such as medical expulsive therapy and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), which is a non-invasive method of breaking up stones using sound waves.
4. Dehydration Is the Leading Cause of Kidney Stones
One of the primary causes of kidney stones is dehydration. When your body doesn’t have enough water, your urine becomes more concentrated, which makes it easier for crystals to form. This is particularly relevant in Kenya, where the hot climate increases the risk of dehydration.
Staying hydrated is one of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones. If you’re prone to stones, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you live in Nairobi or any other hot region in Kenya.
5. ESWL Is a Highly Effective Non-Invasive Treatment
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is one of the most effective non-invasive kidney stones treatment option. The procedure uses sound waves to break up kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be passed through the urinary tract.
At Advanced Urology Clinic, we have the top experienced ESWL specialist in Nairobi who performs this procedure with precision. It’s a painless treatment that requires no surgery, making it an excellent option for patients with smaller kidney stones.
6. You Can Reduce the Risk of Recurrence with Diet
Diet plays a significant role in both the formation and prevention of kidney stones. Foods high in oxalates—such as spinach, beets, and nuts—can increase your risk of developing calcium oxalate stones. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lower your risk.
At Advanced Urology Clinic Nairobi, our expert kidney stone doctor will offer personalized dietary recommendations based on the type of kidney stone you have, helping to reduce the risk of future stones.
7. Kidney Stone Treatment Is Affordable in Kenya
One of the most common concerns people have about kidney stone treatment is the cost. At Advanced Urology Clinic, we offer competitive pricing for kidney stone treatments. Our consultation fee is KSH 5,000, and the kidney stones treatment cost in Kenya varies depending on the treatment option you choose.
We believe that high-quality healthcare should be accessible to everyone, and we work with patients to ensure that they receive the best care at a price they can afford.
8. Early Detection Can Save You from Surgery
The earlier kidney stones are detected, the better your chances of avoiding invasive treatments. Regular check-ups with a urologist can help catch kidney stones before they become a problem. At Advanced Urology Clinic, we recommend routine screenings, especially if you have a family history of kidney stones.
Our clinic has earned a reputation as the best urology clinic in Nairobi, and we have an in-house lab that allows us to conduct necessary tests efficiently, ensuring you get quick and accurate results.
9. Urologists Are Key to Effective Kidney Stone Treatment
When it comes to kidney stone treatment, seeing a specialist is crucial. A general practitioner may not have the expertise needed to manage kidney stones effectively. At Advanced Urology Clinic, we have the best urologist near you in Nairobi, specializing in treating kidney stones and other urological conditions.
By consulting a specialized kidney stone doctor, you can rest assured that you are receiving the most advanced and effective treatment options available.
10. ESWL is Available Right Here in Nairobi
You don’t need to travel abroad to receive world-class treatment for kidney stones. ESWL, a cutting-edge, non-invasive procedure, is available at Advanced Urology Clinic. With the best ESWL specialist in Nairobi, you can receive top-tier treatment without leaving the country.
Kenya is becoming a medical hub, with countless patients traveling from abroad to seek world-class care here in Kenya, with value for money being the top motivator.
We are committed to providing the best care to patients in Kenya, ensuring that you have access to advanced urological treatments without the need for medical tourism.
FAQs About Kidney Stones Treatment
1. What causes kidney stones?
Kidney stones are primarily caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as dehydration, diet, and urinary tract infections.
2. Can kidney stones pass naturally?
Yes, small stones (less than 4 mm) can often pass naturally with the help of medications and increased fluid intake. However, larger stones may require medical intervention.
3. What are the symptoms of kidney stones?
Symptoms include severe pain in the lower back or abdomen, blood in the urine, nausea, and frequent urination.
4. What is ESWL?
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to break up kidney stones into smaller pieces that can be passed naturally.
5. How much does kidney stone treatment cost in Kenya?
At Advanced Urology Clinic, the consultation fee is KSH 5,000, and the kidney stones treatment cost in Kenya varies depending on the treatment method. ESWL and other non-invasive treatments are available at competitive rates.
6. Do you have an in-house lab for urological tests?
Yes, at Advanced Urology Clinic, we have an in-house lab for conducting all necessary tests, ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.
7. What dietary changes can help prevent kidney stones?
Limiting foods high in oxalates and sodium, increasing water intake, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of kidney stones.
8. Is surgery always required for kidney stones?
No, surgery is not always required. Many kidney stones can be treated with non-invasive methods like ESWL or passed naturally.
9. What makes Advanced Urology Clinic the best urology clinic in Nairobi?
Our experienced urologists, state-of-the-art treatments like ESWL, laser lithotripsy, and in-house lab for urological tests make us the best urology clinic in Nairobi.
10. How often should I see a urologist for kidney stone prevention?
If you have a history of kidney stones, it’s advisable to see a urologist near you for regular check-ups every 6-12 months.
Call us at +254 792 082 898 to book an appointment with us today for all your urological issues.
Did You Know?
A study from the British Journal of Urology International showed that patients who undergo ESWL have a high success rate in stone removal, with minimal side effects compared to traditional surgery.