Name of the Condition

• Common Name: Kidney Stones
• Medical Terms: Urinary Calculus, Unspecified

Summary

Urinary calculus, commonly known as kidney stones, refers to solid deposits formed from minerals and salts inside the kidneys. These stones can vary in size and may cause severe pain as they pass through the urinary tract.

Causes

Kidney stones are primarily caused by factors that lead to concentrated urine, such as dehydration. They may also form due to a high intake of certain minerals in the diet, genetic predispositions, or certain medical conditions like hyperparathyroidism.

Risk Factors

• Age: Adults aged 30-50 are more commonly affected.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop kidney stones than women.
• Family History: A family history of kidney stones increases risk.
• Diet: High protein, sodium, and sugar intake can increase risk.
• Obesity: Higher body weight can contribute to stone formation.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, gout, and cystinuria.

Symptoms

• Severe pain in the back or side, often described as sharp and sudden.
• Pain that spreads to the lower abdomen and groin.
• Hematuria (blood in the urine).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Frequent urination or the urge to urinate.

Diagnosis

• Imaging Tests: CT scans and ultrasounds are commonly used.
• Urine Testing: Analyses can detect crystals and minerals.
• Blood Tests: Assess levels of minerals and detect metabolic disorders.

Treatment Options

• Pain Relief: Medications such as NSAIDs or opioids.
• Hydration: Increasing fluid intake to help pass the stone.
• Medical Expulsion Therapy: Alpha-blockers to relax ureter muscles.
• Surgical Treatments: Procedures like lithotripsy or ureteroscopy for larger stones.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

The prognosis for kidney stones is generally good with appropriate treatment. However, recurrence is common. Regular follow-ups ensure stones are fully passed and help monitor kidney function.

Complications

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).
• Chronic kidney disease if associated with recurrent stones.
• Obstruction leading to kidney damage.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, to dilute urine.
• Reduce sodium intake and limit foods high in oxalates (e.g., spinach).
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Monitor nutrition and avoid excessive consumption of protein.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Intense pain that makes it difficult to sit or find a comfortable position.
• Nausea and vomiting accompanying kidney pain.
• Fever and chills, indicating possible infection.
• Blood in urine.

Additional Resources

• National Kidney Foundation: www.kidney.org
• American Urological Association: www.auanet.org
• Patient support forums and groups.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by differentiating between unspecified stones and those located in specific parts of the urinary tract.
• Avoid confusion with ICD codes for stones with identified compositions or specific locations. Check for any associated conditions.