Kidney and bladder stones are a relatively rare condition in children, but they can cause significant discomfort and require prompt medical attention. Here’s what you need to know:
What are Kidney and Bladder Stones?
Kidney and bladder stones are hard, mineral-based deposits that can form in the urinary tract. Kidney stones form in the kidneys and can vary in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Bladder stones, on the other hand, form in the urinary bladder. Collectively, kidney and bladder stones can be referred to as urinary stones or urinary calculi.
What Causes Kidney and Bladder Stones in Children?
Urinary stones can be caused by a variety of factors such as:
- Dehydration: Children who do not drink enough fluids may be at risk for developing kidney and bladder stones.
- Diet: A diet high in salt, sugar, and processed foods can increase the risk of kidney and bladder stones.
- Genetics: Children with a family history of kidney and bladder stones may be more likely to develop these themselves.
What symptoms do children with urinary stones have?
Kidney and bladder stones in children may cause one or more of the following symptoms:
- Pain: This is the most common symptom of kidney and bladder stones and may be described as sharp or cramping pain in the lower abdomen, back, or sides.
- Nausea and vomiting: Children with kidney and bladder stones may experience nausea and vomiting, particularly if the stones cause a blockage in the urinary tract.
- Difficulty urinating: Kidney and bladder stones can make it difficult for children to urinate, causing discomfort and pain.
Treatment
If your child is experiencing the symptoms of kidney and bladder stones, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. In many cases, kidney and bladder stones can be treated with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications and increased physical activity. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the stones and improve your child’s symptoms.
Conclusion
Kidney and bladder stones can cause significant discomfort and require prompt medical attention.
About Dr. Geeta Kekre
Dr. Geeta Kekre is a Paediatric Surgeon in Pune She is a specialist in pediatric minimal access surgery including robotic surgery as well as reconstructive pediatric urology. After ten years in Mumbai, Dr. Kekre returned to her hometown bringing with her a passion for the surgical care of children and a distinct set of skills in the areas of pediatric minimal access surgery, pediatric endourology, fetal hydronephrosis and antenatal parental counseling, pediatric incontinence, and voiding dysfunction. Her focus is on tailoring surgical therapy to allow her patients to have as active and fun a childhood as possible while delivering the best achievable medical outcomes.
